QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024
	Davenport man sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for child porn charges A Davenport man was sentenced Wednesday to 192 months, or 16 years, in federal prison for the distribution and receipt of child pornography, according to a media release.
	Empowering Abilities holds early Thanksgiving dinner Davenport police officers fed more than 200 people at the event.
	Davenport man sentenced to federal prison for receipt, distribution of child pornography A Davenport man was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for distribution and receipt of child pornography, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice. According to public court documents, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in 2023, stating that child sexual abuse material had been uploaded and shared from an account on a digital storage platform. Officers determined that Bob Arthur Phillips, 37, uploaded the child sexual abuse material to the digital storage account. Officers seized numerous electronic devices belonging to Phillips after multiple residential search warrants as his home. The devices were found to contain evidence of distributing and receiving child sexual assault material. Phillips must serve an eight year term of supervised release after completing his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Phillips was ordered to pay $38,000 and must register as a sex offender. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood gathers federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Click here for more about Project Safe Childhood. Click here and click on the resources tab for more about internet safety education.
	Davenport man accused of using wooden croquet mallet to attack family member A Davenport man is being held without bond following an attack on a family member with a croquet mallet.
	First Trace of Snow This Season As temperatures have dropped significantly today from the low to mid 60s at the start of the week, we are seeing our first glances at snow today. With temperatures in the 30s this afternoon and gusty winds bringing the wind chill down to the 20s, these clouds are bringing in some slight flurries. It isn't going to be enough to create any accumulation, but it is a sign of the times that snow is on the radar now as we reach the end of November here in the Quad Cities.
	ISU Extension: Preparing for the holiday season Rachel Sweeney, Answerline Program Specialist with the Iowa State University Extension & Outreach shares what the answerline is all about.
	2 women arrested in prostitution sting at LeClaire massage parlor An undercover investigation – launched after customer complaints – reveals what authorities are describing as a prostitution operation at a LeClaire massage parlor.
	Women arrested in LeClaire on prostitution charges Two women have been arrested on prostitution charges after an undercover operation in LeClaire, according to Scott County court documents. The criminal complaint says that members of the Scott County Sheriff's Office Special Operations Unit Task Force (SOU) conducted an undercover operation at KT Rose Spa, 1007 Canal Shore Dr. SW in Le Claire on Tuesday, November 19. The operation was in response to complaints about sexual favors being offered during/after massages. A member of the SOU Task Force entered the business during normal business hours during the undercover operation and told the attendant/masseuse, later identified as Xuemei Wu, 45 of Weston, Fla., that he wished to receive a half hour massage in exchange for U.S. currency. Yalan Chen (Scott County Jail) Xuemei Wu (Scott County Jail) During the massage the undercover agent was asked by Wu if he wished to perform sexual acts with her and her co-worker, later identified as Yalan Chen, 54 of San Jose, Calif. Wu gave the agent a price in U.S. currency for the act, according to the complaint. During post-Miranda interviews with Wu and Chen, Chen denied any involvement in the business and said she did not give any massages. She said she was purely here for "fun" but could not elaborate on what that meant. A confidential source positively identified Chen as someone who had offered them sexual favors during a previous incident. Wu did not wish to speak with agents. Officers obtained a search warrant for the premises and during its execution, it became apparent that Wu and Chen were living within the premises, the criminal complaint said. They found several unused condoms in both of the "bedroom" areas. Chen and Wu were arrested on Tuesday, November 19 on prostitution charges, according to jail records. Chen was released on $2,000 bond and has a preliminary hearing on December 10. Wu was also released on a $2,000 bond and has a preliminary hearing on December 10.
	Nashville man killed after crashing semi on I-80 in Iowa According to an Iowa State Patrol crash report, a semi was driving east near mile marker 245 around 5:12 a.m. when it left the roadway and struck a bridge guardrail.
	Bettendorf holiday events will keep the whole family merry Get out the calendars, the City of Bettendorf has plenty of holiday activities for the entire family, including the four-legged ones! Senior Angel Tree, Wednesday, November 20 through Monday, December 2 at the Bettendorf Police Department, 1609 State Street. The Bettendorf Police Department (BPD) is again partnering with CASI – Center for Active Seniors, Inc. to provide gifts to seniors in the community. Anyone can stop by BPD, choose a name tag from the Senior Angel Tree, buy gifts for that person and return the unwrapped items to BPD by December 2. Giving Trees, Monday, November 25 through Friday, December 27 at the Bettendorf Community Center, 2204 Grant Street and the Family Museum, 2900 Learning Campus Drive. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department and the Family Museum are asking for donations of supplies for their exhibits, programs, camps and more. Items on their “wish lists” include everything from crayons and markers to gently used board games and DVDs, Letters to the North Pole, Monday, November 25 through Friday, December 20 Mailboxes are located at the Bettendorf Community Center and Family Museum Description. Bettendorf enlisted some special “elves” who can help you get wishes to Santa! Kids can drop off a letter and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to one of two special mailboxes located at the Bettendorf Community Center or the Family Museum and the elves will make sure they receive a response from the North Pole. Reindeer Day, Saturday, December 7 from 12 – 5 p.m. at the Family Museum. This event is included with paid admission and has real live reindeer, a variety of reindeer games and a special performance from the Family Museum Dance Company. Pack a Police Car & Fire Truck, Saturday, December 7 from 12 – 2 p.m. in the parking lot between the Family Museum and the Bettendorf Public Library, Learning Campus Drive. Visit with members of the Bettendorf Police and Fire Departments, drop off a new, unwrapped toy and receive $2 off admission to Reindeer Day. Santa’s Day Out, Saturday, December 7 from 3:15 – 7 p.m. at the Bettendorf Community Center. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department invites parents to drop off kids ages 5-12 for an afternoon of fun – and get some shopping done! Register for the event here by November 24. The fun includes holiday-themed crafts, games, dessert decorating, pizza and “The Grinch” on the big screen. ‘Tis the Season, Sunday, December 8 from 1 – 3 p.m. at Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State Street. This free event for seniors in the community includes live entertainment from bands, choirs, dancers and more. The Bettendorf City Council and city staff will serve refreshments. The event is free, but registration is required; click here to register or call (563) 344-4113. Holiday Dog Walk, Sunday, December 8 starting at 1 p.m. at Crow Creek Dog Park, 4701 Devils Glen Road. The Bettendorf Trails Committee and the Bettendorf Dog Park Alliance are hosting this free event, which includes a 3-mile walk and a special gift for dogs, as well as hot cider for their people. All breeds and pedigrees are welcome to attend. Holiday PJ Paint Party, Sunday, December 8 from 3 – 5 p.m. at the Bettendorf Community Center. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department and Art with Kare are offering a holiday pajama painting class. Kids ages 7-14 will learn to paint a piece of art and enjoy pizza while their paintings dry. This event requires registration; click here to sign up. Opening of The Landing Ice Rink, Sunday, December 15 from 12 – 6 p.m. at The Landing Ice Rink, 2255 Middle Road. The city’s newest attraction features an 11,000+ square foot ice rink surrounded by gas firepits and The Lodge, which has indoor restrooms, concessions and a fireplace. Ribbon Cutting & Tree Lighting Ceremony of The Landing Ice Rink, Monday, December 16 at 4 p.m. at The Landing Ice Rink. Mayor Bob Gallagher, Bettendorf City Council, city leaders and community partners will celebrate Bettendorf’s newest amenity. Holiday Jammie Jam, Friday, December 20 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Family Museum. Families can show off their holiday PJs at this free event and sing holiday favorites in the beautifully decorated Great Hall. Noon Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Family Museum, 2900 Learning Campus Drive. Kids get to celebrate a countdown to 12... Noon! There are a limited number of tickets available for the event and they go on sale December 2. Follow the Family Museum’s Facebook and Instagram pages for ticket information. Click here to see all the holiday events in Bettendorf.
	Davenport man charged with punching police officer before drugs, weapons arrest A Davenport man arrested Tuesday allegedly punched a police officer before his arrest for drugs and weapons possession.
	More than 1,000 students attend Building Futures Career Expo More than 1,000 students visited Rock Island on Tuesday to learn about careers in the trades. Students from seventh through 12th grades showed up for the Building Futures Career Expo at the QCCA Expo Center. They took part in trade-related activities like plumbing, electrical work and ironwork. Students got hands-on experience with technology and spoke with the experts about the work. Organizers say this exposure is important for growing the local workforce in the trades.
	Moline and firefighters' union agree to new contract, including raises, parental leave The contract will be in place starting Jan. 1, 2025 until Dec. 31, 2027.
	Mercer County football coach resigns after being suspended in October, report says Matlick was suspended due to a "series of events resulting in a climate and culture below the expectations of the school district," a district statement said.
	Police say Davenport man struck parent in face with croquet mallet 37-year-old James McNabb is charged with willful injury - causing serious injury, going armed with intent, and domestic abuse.
	Autistic & Loved opening new sensory gym in Davenport QCA families who have members with sensory needs have a new place to play and be safe. Autistic & Loved is opening a Sensory Gym for children with autism and their families. The launch party for the gym will be on Wednesday, December 4 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 3811 Harrison Street, Suite 200 in Davenport. Not only will the gym be a place for children with sensory needs to have a place to play, be safe, and be themselves but area therapists can rent the space for members and their families. The gym also has a sensory chill/calming room, a greenhouse and a gift shop. Autistic & Loved was founded by Dr. Kit Evans Ford, after realizing there was a need for more resources and products for children with sensory needs in the community. Click here for more information on the organization.
	SAL Community Services receives $13,000 in grants SAL Community Services receives $13,000 in new and renewal grants to support childcare and family programs.
	With self-defense classes, women empowered to stay safe, protect others It is a free, weekly women’s survivor self-defense class in Moline, Illinois, for women ages 15 and up that is drop-in and is unique to the Quad Cities.
	Davenport man charged with trying to sell stolen bike to owner arrested on theft, burglary charges A Davenport man who was arrested last month for trying to sell a stolen bicycle back to its owner, who was accompanied by police, is back in the Scott County Jail today. This time he’s being held on multiple theft, conspiracy and burglary charges. Dillan Silvers (Scott County Jail) Dillan Silvers, 20, was arrested on Wednesday, November 20 and taken to the Scott County Jail on these charges, according to jail records: 6 counts of felony third degree burglary 2 counts of felony conspiracy 2 counts of misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor Felony second degree theft Misdemeanor fourth degree theft Felony trafficking in stolen weapons Felony ongoing criminal activity Silvers is in the Scott County Jail on a total secured bond of $33,000 and a total cash-only bond of $30,000 and is awaiting an initial court appearance.
	Davenport man accused of using wooden croquet mallet to attack family member A Davenport man is being held without bond following an attack on a family member with a croquet mallet.
	Argrow's House hosting launch party for cafe, gift shop There’s exciting news from Argrow’s House – they’re hosting a launch party for their gift shop and cafe! The party celebrating the cafe, the new Social Innovation Hub documentary and the gift shop will be on December 4 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Davenport location, 3811 Harrison Street, Suite 100. Visitors can shop their naturally handmade products by women survivors of violence. Free samples of a new coffee made by women survivors in Colombia will be available. Argrow's House of Healing and Hope is a safe space where free services are offered every day for women healing from violence and abuse. It’s also a bath and body social enterprise where women healing from abuse create beautiful products to make a living for themselves. Over the past seven years, Argrow’s House has served hundreds of women and children who are healing from violence. The group employs survivors and offers monthly domestic violence support groups, art therapy, food programs, therapeutic animal support and yoga. They have opened a community and counseling center for survivors and provided a rent-free home for women and children survivors of violence. Click here for more on Argrow’s House, including a link to buy products.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Nov. 20, 2024 The QC Botanical Center will unveil its winter display for its 8th annual "Winter Lights," the Scott County Regional Authority awarded $1.3 million in grants.
	Dhol drum artist Sunny Jain playing at Butterworth Center Percussions fans, check out Dhol drum artist Sunny Jain when he performs a concert for Music at Butterworth Center on Wednesday, December 4 at 7 p.m. in the Butterworth Center’s library, 1105 Eighth Street in Moline. Sunny Jain (Butterworth Center) Known as the “Hendrix of Dhol,” Jain founded Red Baraat, a fusion of bhangra, hip-hop, jazz, rock and sheer energy that NPR calls the “best party band in years.” Red Baraat has played the White House, London Olympics, TED, Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo, Luxembourg Philharmonic, Peter Gabriel’s WOMAD festivals (Australia, New Zealand, Spain and UK) and Padma Lakshmi’s Blossom Ball. While Jain entertains with his Dhol, a double-sided drum with a wide range of sounds and rhythms, he encourages families with young musicians to try it. All Music at Butterworth concerts are free and take place in the grand Butterworth Center Library, with complimentary refreshments in the historic dining room afterward. Visitors can find plenty of parking adjacent to the Butterworth Center. Call (309) 743-2701 or click here for more information on the Butterworth Center and its event schedule.
	Regional blood center ImpactLife celebrates 50 years with ribbon cutting In 1974 two blood banks merged to create one.
	City of Davenport to discuss progress on Fair Oaks Foods project Davenport city leaders are continuing discussions on the progress being made on a major meat-processing factory that could bring hundreds of jobs to the Quad Cities Area.
	Davenport man arrested after punching police officer A Davenport man is being held in the Scott County Jail on no bond after police say he punched one officer in the face and caused knee injuries in two others after a chase. Melvin Hawkins III (Scott County Jail) Members of the Davenport Police Department's Tactical Operations Bureau concluded a narcotics investigation on November 19 at about 8:26 a.m. involving Melvin Hawkins III. Officers followed Hawkins from his home in the 2700 block of N. Brady Street to a home in the 300 block of E. 30th Street. A uniformed police officer in a fully marked squad car arrived as detectives wearing vests with clear police markings approached Hawkins. According to the criminal complaint, he punched the officer in the face with a closed fist, causing the eye to swell and a bleeding laceration. Hawkins tried to run from officers but eventually fell to the ground and was detained. Two officers sustained knee lacerations causing pain and bleeding during the chase. Hawkins dropped a bag while running that contained 147.45 grams of high-grade marijuana, a digital scale and a box of sandwich bags. He also had a cell phone and $1,123 in cash. The complaint further says that officers checked Hawkins’ Iowa driver's license and learned it was revoked for Eluding until December 16, 2024. He also failed to have SR-22 insurance in his vehicle. Officers checked his criminal history and discovered Hawkins is a convicted felon. Detectives executed a search warrant on Hawkins’ home and found a 12 gauge shotgun, $4,000 in cash, a digital scale, 14.65 grams of marijuana, 61.35 grams of marijuana edibles and ammunition. The marijuana weighing 147.45 grams and the marijuana edibles weighing 61.35 grams did not have an affixed Iowa Drug Tax Stamp, which the Code of Iowa requires. The marijuana and marijuana edibles field-tested positive using a field test kit. Hawkins was arrested and charged with: Felony dominion/control of a weapon by a domestic abuse offender Assault on a police officer Driving while license denied/revoked 2 counts of failure to affix a drug tax stamp Interference with official acts 2 counts of possession with intent to deliver Violation of financial liability Jail records show he is being held in the Scott County Jail on no bond as he awaits an initial court appearance.
	More than 1K students gather for Building Futures Career Expo in Rock Island With a number of people nearing retirement, the building and trades industry is in need of new workers.
	2 families displaced in Sterling apartment fire, crews say Two families are left displaced after crews responded to an apartment fire Tuesday night. Several people had to be treated on scene for smoke inhalation.
	Additional investigations into UI Greek Life organizations Additional investigations into UI Greek Life organizations
	Coming Soon: Rock Island officials welcome their community to Arts Alley This project began in 2021, and with some financial assistance from the Quad Cities Chamber in 2022, this section of Rock Island has been revitalized for future use.
	Firefighters put out Sterling house fire Two families were displaced, and three people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
	New city administrator for Muscatine likely to be approved in early December Mayor Brad Bark hopes the new city administrator will be able to start before the start of the new year.
	Trial begins in 2022 Rock Island murder and home invasion case Authorities allege Jonathan Rojas-Carrasco killed Eric B. Beale during an Oct. 9, 2022, home invasion in Rock Island.
	1,000 students get a hands-on taste of building trades at expo in Rock Island Students from 39 schools in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois could explore 42 hands-on activities and exhibits on building and construction trades at the first ever Building Futures Career Expo.
	1,000 students get a hands-on taste of building trades at expo in Rock Island Students from 39 schools in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois could explore 42 hands-on activities and exhibits on building and construction trades at the first ever Building Futures Career Expo.
	Southeast Iowa counties prepare to recount more than 400,000 ballots in 1st District race Counties are gearing up to recount more than 400,000 ballots in Iowa's 1st Congressional District race.
	Quad Cities Community Foundation scholarship applications open for 2025 Applications are due by Feb. 15, 2025, and students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
	Public defenders won't represent misdemeanor cases in Scott County "If private attorneys don't step up, if judges don't start assigning attorneys to cases, we are going to have unrepresented people," Iowa Chief Public Defender Jeff Wright said.
	Orion village to hold levy flat for 13th year While Village President Jim Cooper called for at least some increase, all six trustees voted to go with finance chairman Steve Newman's recommendation to hold the levy at $193,155.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, Nov. 20, 2024 Olivia O'Connor, 25, formerly of Saginaw, MI, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA. Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, Moline.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, Nov. 20, 2024 Joann Love, 92, of Rock Island, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2024, at home. Arrangements are pending at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island.
	Second person involved in overdose death of Bettendorf woman sentenced to probation The second person charged in connection with the October 2023 overdose death of a Bettendorf woman has been sentenced to five years on supervised probation.
	Structure fire displaces two Sterling families Two families were displaced late Tuesday after a structure fire in Sterling, according to a news release. (sterling-il.gov) About 7:45 p.m. the Sterling Fire Department, Rock Falls Fire Department, CGH EMS and Sterling Police were dispatched to a possible structure fire. Police arrived to find smoke coming from the upstairs window, with flames visible in the window as well, on a two-story home that had been split into two apartments. Dixon Rural Fire, Prophetstown Fire, Milledgeville Fire and Advance Ambulance also came to the scene. Morrison Fire and Amboy Fire covered for the two fire departments.First-arriving fire units made a quick outside hit on the fire, then transitioned into the upstairs to get the fire out. About 250 gallons of water were used. The fire and smoke displaced two families. Three people were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene, but were not transported to a hospital. Two cats that had to be resuscitated are now in the care of Whiteside Animal Control.The scene has been turned over to Sterling Code Enforcement, the release says. To assist the displaced families, 1-800-Boardup and the Red Cross were contacted.
Tuesday, November 19th, 2024
	$400k approved to help rebuild, upgrade Niabi Zoo exhibits destroyed by heavy snow Rock Island Co. board members approved $400,000 Tuesday to help Niabi Zoo rebuild popular exhibits destroyed by record snowfall in January.
	Western Big 6 Boys Basketball coaches look ahead to season at banquet The high school boys basketball season tips off next week. Western Big 6 boys’ basketball coaches met at the Quad City Botanical Center for the conference’s annual banquet Tuesday night.
	City of Galesburg purchases playground equipment for Cooke Park The equipment will cost approximately $110,000.
	Optimist Club once again selling Christmas trees in Davenport All proceeds will benefit more than 40 youth-oriented charities in the region.
	2 Peoria County men accused of derailing train Officials said the derailment, which took place outside of Bartonville, caused around $80,000 in estimated damages.
	Tanner Matlick resigns as head football coach at Mercer County Matlick missed the team's last two games of the season while serving an indefinite suspension.
	Moline moving forward with 2025 budget The council held a public hearing on its proposed budget on Tuesday night.
	Niabi Zoo seeking funding to repair damaged animal enclosures A January snowstorm dropped 25 inches of snow, and multiple enclosures collapsed under the weight.
	Scott County Regional Authority celebrates awarding more than $100 million awarded The group has been donating to groups in the Quad Cities since 1991.
	Visit Quad Cities awarded more than $40,000 for tourism The funding came from Illinois' International Tourism Grant Program.
	Officials: More funding needed to repair Niabi Zoo animal enclosures A January snowstorm dropped 25 inches of snow, and multiple enclosures collapsed under the weight.
	Chance for snow! First flakes of the season possible Wednesday afternoon With colder weather moving in over the next few days, the stage is set for our first chance of snow this season! There's not likely going to be any accumulation, but a quick snow shower or two is possible Wednesday afternoon. It'll be cool and blustery with temps in the 40s. Even though there's no accumulation likely, the snow showers could offer a quick drop in the visibility if they materialize!
	Deadline for candidates to request election recount has passed in Iowa: Here are the impacted races locally The Scott County Board of Supervisors has approved conducting two recounts, one state race in House District 98 and Iowa's First Congressional District race.
	Kick off the holidays in Downtown Davenport! The holidays are right around the corner, and Davenport is ready to kick it all off as only the QCA can. Olivia Warren from Downtown Davenport Partnership joined Our Quad Cities News for a preview of weekend holiday festivities. For more information, click here.
	2nd person sentenced in Bettendorf woman's fatal overdose A second person has been sentenced in the fatal overdose of a Bettendorf woman, according to court records. Nicole Tucker and Lucas Seitz (Scott County Jail) Lucas Seitz, who earlier entered a guilty plea in connection with the death of Kayla Slusser, was sentenced Nov. 13 in Scott County Court to incarceration, a sentence that was suspended. Seitz was placed on five years of probation. According to the order of disposition, Seitz must complete the Residential Correctional Facility program, obtain a substance abuse evaluation and follow through with any recommended treatment, abstain from alcohol and controlled substances and submit to random urine tests. An overdose in 2023 About 1:46 a.m. Oct. 14, 2023, police responded to a room at the City Center Motel, 1138 State St., for an unresponsive person. "The victim was transported to the hospital and life support measures were done," police say in affidavits. "The victim was pronounced deceased three days later." A witness, LC, was interviewed several times during this investigation. "LC states the victim is a fentanyl user and will rarely smoke methamphetamine. LC states the victim was not in possession of any narcotics and contacted Lucas Seitz to obtain heroin or fentanyl. LC arranged an Uber driver to drive Seitz from the motel to meet with his supplier to obtain opiates. LC observed the victim to be under the influence of what LC believed to be opiates based on her demeanor. LC then observed the victim to turn blue and was not breathing," according to affidavits. "LC attempted life-saving measures to include multiple doses of Narcan as well as chest compressions," affidavits say. Affidavits show that Seitz, who was interviewed several times during the investigation, said LC contacted him looking for heroin for his girlfriend, whom Seitz had never met. Affidavits say Seitz contacted his main supplier, who put him in contact with Nicole Tucker, who agreed to sell Seitz opiates, police allege in affidavits. "Seitz obtained a ride to the City Center, where LC provided him $100 for the purchase of heroin or fentanyl as well as an Uber driver to transport him to meet with his supplier." Affidavits say Seitz spent some of the $100 on cigarettes and a soda, then met with Tucker in Davenport. Seitz purchased a personal-use amount of what he believed to be heroin or fentanyl in exchange for $40 from Tucker. Seitz was given a ride back to the City Center, where he gave the packaged drugs to LC. "Seitz claimed to have not used any of the narcotics," according to affidavits. Tucker was interviewed once during the investigation, affidavits say. Tucker stated that Seitz contacted her looking to purchase opiates, and that Tucker was in possession of two "bad batches" of drugs, possibly "fake dope." Tucker stated she had purchased these for herself and they did not have the desired effect, so she re-sold them to Seitz in exchange for $40 to re-coup some of what she spent on it, according to affidavits. She met with Seitz about 10:30 p.m. Oct. 13 in the area of 31st Street and Western Avenue, Davenport. Text messages and phone calls between Seitz, Tucker and another person confirmed the transaction between Seitz and Tucker on Oct. 13 about 11 p.m., police allege in affidavits. The night of the overdose, officers performed a consent search on a neighbor's room and located: 0.6 grams (total package weight) methamphetamine (DCI - Division of Criminal Investigation - findings methamphetamine), 0.55 grams foil with burnt liquid sludge (DCI findings fentanyl), hypodermic syringe with liquid (DCI findings - methamphetamine/fentanyl/n-pyrrolidino etonitazene mixture), a spoon with burn marks and cotton swab (DCI findings - methamphetamine/fentanyl/n-pyrrolidino etonitazene mixture), and drug pipes, according to affidavits. Affidavits show "It was learned that at some point after the victim overdosed, these items were moved from the victim's room to the motel room next door." Toxicology results report the victim had positive findings of methamphetamine, amphetamine and phenylpropanolamine in her system. The initial toxicology test was sent in for only an amphetamine panel, not fentanyl or heroin, according to affidavits. Seitz and Nicole Tucker were arrested on warrants. 'I'll carry the weight of regret for the rest of my life.' In July, Tucker pleaded guilty to providing drugs to Kayla Slusser. Tucker was sentenced in Scott County Court to a total of 15 years for charges of involuntary manslaughter, third-degree burglary, first-degree theft and delivery of fentanyl. Tucker’s attorney read a statement written by Tucker. “I’d like to express immense remorse,” she wrote. “Drug addiction is what this all stems from ….I’ll carry the weight of regret for the rest of my life.” “I allowed addiction to take control over me. My choices will haunt me forever. I’m willing to face the repercussions I will be handed.” Members of the late Kayla Slusser‘s family, several of whom wore pink T-shirts with Kayla Slusser’s face on them, read emotional victim-impact statements. One read a statement on behalf of Kayla Slusser’s mother, who said “My daughter did not deserve this, to die like this.” Kayla Slusser’s sister said Kayla had a “sweet, happy-go-lucky spirit.” She said her sister knew she needed help, went to rehab and then relapsed. But “I had every hope that my sister was going to get better,” she said. “Every family get-together is marked by her absence.” Kayla Slusser was 25 when she died. “Your statements were very powerful,” the judge told the family. What are these drugs? According to the Department of Justice, N-pyrrolidino etonitazene (etonitazepyne) is a synthetic opioid that is "extremely potent" and "high risk" to users. Fentanyl is a strong opioid used as a pain medication. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the United States, the CDC says.
	Women working at massage spa arrested on prostitution charges Two women working at a massage spa in LeClaire were arrested Tuesday for allegedly offering sexual favors for money to deputies of the Scott County Sheriff’s Special Operations Unit.
	Over 1,000 QCA students explore impact of technology in trade careers The inaugural event highlighted how technology ties into the trades, hoping to engage younger generations.
	Davenport man sentenced for eluding, hitting utility pole, causing power outage A 32-year-old Davenport man has been sentenced after police say he led a pursuit, hit a utility pole and caused a power outage, court records show. Derrick Howard (Scott County Jail) Derrick Howard was sentenced Thursday after he pleaded guilty to eluding over 25 mph - second or subsequent offense, and neglect or abandonment of a dependent person, according to court records. At first, he was sentenced to a term not to exceed 10 years, court records show. But the sentence of incarceration was suspended, and Howard was placed on probation pending good behavior for a period of three years unless sooner released by the court upon completion. Specific conditions of probation include that he will have no further law violations, maintain employment, and follow any other conditions set by the probation officer, court records show. A traffic stop, a chase and a crash At about 1:40 a.m. Feb. 3, 2024, an Iowa State Trooper saw a Kia SUV headed west on Locust Street with an improper rear lamp emitting white light, arrest affidavits say. The trooper, in a fully marked ISP cruiser, “safely caught up to the SUV as it approached the red light for Gaines Street” and ran the plate that returned with the owner being suspended. When the SUV came to a stop, the trooper gave commands to the driver to put the SUV into park, but “the driver moved into the rear seat and the male passenger jumped into the driver’s seat and accelerated away, actively eluding me,” the trooper writes in affidavits. During the ensuing pursuit, the trooper says in affidavits that Howard, who was driving, made multiple traffic infractions including but not limited to speeding in excess of 25 mph over the limit, failure to obey a traffic control device, unsafe turns, driving the wrong way on a one-way, failure to maintain control and failure to give a continuous turn signal. The pursuit ended near the intersection of Grand Avenue and Central Park when the SUV failed to maintain control and struck an electrical pole, which then struck a parked car. The damage caused by the crash exceeded $10,000 and cut power utilities to multiple residences, affidavits show. The trooper alleges in affidavits that “Howard fled on foot from the vehicle showing no care for the possible injuries” (of the people in the SUV,) including a 4-year-old child, After the trooper confirmed no one was injured, a K9 was brought to the scene and indicated at the SUV. “A search of the vehicle was conducted and a marijuana blunt was located in the center cup holder along with an open bottle of vodka,” the trooper alleges in affidavits.. Howard was apprehended several hours later hiding in the back yard of a local residence, according to affidavits. After he was read his Miranda Rights, Howard admitted to being thedriver and fleeing because he believed he had an active warrant for his arrest. “Howard also admitted to having drunk out of the bottle of vodka just prior to the traffic stop, but after being run through standard field sobriety tests it was determined he was under the legal limit,” the trooper writes in affidavits.
	Advocates look at expanding childcare pilot program across Iowa Statewide expansion would create 8,000 jobs, advocates say
	Over 1,000 QCA students explore the impact of technology at construction career expo Nov. 17-23 marks the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week.
	ImpactLife celebrating 50 years of serving the Quad Cities The organization held an event at its Davenport headquarters on Tuesday, which included families of blood transfusion recipients.
	Deadline to request election recount has passed in Iowa: Here are the impacted races The Scott County Board of Supervisors has approved two recounts, one state race in House District 98 and Iowa's First Congressional District race.
	Iowa, Illinois agencies preparing for winter weather Iowa DOT said it still needs about 300 snow plow drivers across the state. Both states have thousands of tons of salt stored at various locations.
	Arts Alley hosts vendors in unique spaces Downtown Rock Island will light up Wednesday for the holidays with caroling, refreshments and a tree lighting. The Arts Alley will have a few local businesses setting up pop-up shops in refurbished shipping containers. (Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com) Buttercupp Candles, one of the two vendors present on Wednesday, is hopeful for the event will embody the spirit of the holidays. "I think for a long time you know the district area was more a party type area and they're putting a ton of energy a ton of effort to make it family friendly," said KC Cupp, one the of the company's co-owners. They're hoping it will be more business friendly too. "Businesses are going to want to come and establish a presence here create a lot more opportunities for families to just come along and enjoy the downtown," said KC Cupp. These new pop-up shops are built to last through the winter. "They obviously have turned into true little shops, these retail vendor stalls," said Rock Island Downtown Alliance Executive Director Jack Cullen. "They've added windows, doors, secure entry, heating and cooling, they'll be powered up with lights. So when they say state of the art, it truly is." Another business taking up shop Wednesday is Lagomarcino's Confectionary, who've been in Moline for 116 years. They're hoping their history in the Quad Cities can help in bringing interest to the holiday market. "I think we might broaden our customer base, because we are down here," said Beth Lagomarcino, the owner of the shop. "We were glad to be given the opportunity. We are a known name in the quad cities, so hopefully that will help bring people." Both vendors believe this can help stimulate local business. "I think that just it's super important to shop local. When those dollars stay in your community, you're providing jobs and local is everything, especially to small businesses this time of year." The tree lighting will start around 4:30 and the holiday market will be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. every weekend from November 29th through December 22nd. For more information, click here.
	Davenport non-profit LivWell CARES distributes meals for low-income seniors during holiday season Folks in the community have until Friday, November 22nd, to help out with the giving program for the holidays.
	Deadline to request election recount has passed in Iowa: Here are the impacted races 3 statewide races will be recounted, including House District 98 which covers much of Scott County. Iowa's First Congressional District race will be recounted too.
	QC International Airport announces new service to southwest Florida Travelers flying out of the Quad Cities International Airport have a new warm weather destination starting Feb. 13.
	East Moline plans $100 million in water system improvements, expects rate increases Aging infrastructure and government mandates require improvements to the city's water and wastewater plants. Residents will likely see larger bills.
	Muscatine's holiday light display is back for its second year Weed Park will be decorated with more than 40 professional light displays.
	QC International Airport to begin offering flights to Sarasota The flights will start taking off in February.
	2 men arrested in Peoria County accused of derailing train Officials said the derailment, which took place outside of Bartonville, caused around $80,000 in estimated damages.
	Iowa Business Council hosts Vision to Vitality workforce forum Part of the discussion included finding ways to engage more students at all levels of education about the jobs in their own backyard.
	QC Botanical Center ringing in the holidays with annual light show The outdoor gardens will be filled with more than 250,000 and opens on Nov. 21.
	Not as breezy Tuesday night While there'll still be a bit of a breeze Tuesday night, it WILL NOT be as windy as Monday night! Some winds gusted to around 45 miles per hour overnight. If you noticed anything blown around in the neighborhood Tuesday morning, here's why: The next big weather thing? There's a chance for some LIGHT wet snow Wednesday afternoon. No accumulation is expected...
	Whooping cough case confirmed in McDonough County The illness was found within West Prairie Junior and Senior High School.
	Approaching its third year in business, the Sensi'il Studios universe is expanding Basi Affia, creator of Iowa's first — and only — Black comic book publisher, Sensi’il Studios, has produced sci-fi comics, music videos and even movies.
	Educators from Bettendorf, Mount Pleasant win Iowa's inaugural Regional Teacher of the Year awards The recognition also makes Kaitlin Mahoney and Samantha Freeman eligible to be named Iowa's 2025 Teacher of the Year.
	Allegiant announces new flight for Quad-Cities travelers Come February, travelers will have a new option to escape the Midwestern winter.
	“Christmas with C.S. Lewis,” December 1 With Chicago Stage lauding the "brilliant portrayal" at its center, the touring stage hit Christmas with C.S. Lewis lands at Davenport's Adler Theatre on December 1, this delightful one-man show starring Aaron Mays celebrating the unique friendship between Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, the iconic authors of the Chronicles of Narnia and the Lord of the Rings series.
	ImpactLife celebrates 50 years in Davenport The organization started in Davenport in 1974 with an office on East 15th Street.
	ImpactLife celebrates 50 years in Davenport The organization started in Davenport in 1974 with an office on East 15th Street.
	ImpactLife celebrates 50 years in Davenport The organization started in Davenport in 1974 with an office on East 15th Street.
	ImpactLife celebrates 50 years in Davenport The organization started in Davenport in 1974 with an office on East 15th Street.
	ImpactLife celebrates 50 years in Davenport The organization started in Davenport in 1974 with an office on East 15th Street.
	“It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” November 29 through December 15 A well-known seasonal tale gets an inventive theatrical makeover when Iowa City's Riverside Theatre presents playwright Joe Landry's It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, which finds Frank Capra's holiday classic – and the entire town of Bedford Falls – re-enacted by a cast of five in this delightful November 29 through December 15 stage presentation.
	“Disney on Ice Presents: 'Frozen' & 'Encanto,'" December 5 through 8 In a beloved seasonal tradition, family audiences are invited to the Vibrant Arena at the MARK from December 5 through 8 to experience the wonderful world of Disney – on Ice – in the brand-new touring sensation Disney on Ice Presents: "Frozen" & "Encanto," with the Moline venue transformed into an enormous skating rink for thrilling takes on two of the studio's most popular and acclaimed animated films of recent years, both of which won Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature.
	19th Century Christmas, December 1 In the eagerly awaited return of a seasonal Quad Cities tradition, visitors can experience the wonders of a classic Victorian holiday season in Moline's unique Deere-family homes through 19th Century Christmas, the Butterworth Center's and Deere-Wiman House's annually beloved December 1 event boasting litany of yuletide treats including live music performances, interactive tours, make-and-take activities, refreshments, and, of course, a special visit by Santa Claus.
	“The Room” Screening and Live Q&A, December 5 Hailed, or maybe derided, by Entertainment Weekly as "the Citizen Kane of bad movies," multi-hyphenate Tommy Wiseau's legendary 2003 melodrama The Room will enjoy a special screening at Davenport venue The Last Picture House on December 5, this eagerly anticipated event for fans of the cult classic also featuring a live Q&A session with co-star and best-selling The Disaster Artist co-writer Greg Sestero. Oh hi, Mark!
	“Louise Kames: I Don't See Anything That's Not Beautiful,” November 30 through April 6 Boasting large woodcut prints and charcoal and pastel drawings of a dying willow tree from her yard in Dubuque, the arresting, fascinating exhibition Louise Kames: I Don’t See Anything That’s Not Beautiful – on display November 30 through April 6 – will be showcased in the Gildehaus Gallery of Davenport's Figge Art Museum, the artist focused on creating works that explore the beauty of natural decay, the line between life and death, and what remains after.
	Salvation Army needs bell ringers The holidays are quickly approaching, and a sign of the season is the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign. Those kettles are staffed by volunteer and paid bell ringers. Major Lucille Gates, Quad City area coordinator, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to update the public on the need for bell ringers. “We're still needing people, both paid and volunteers for us,” she said. “We just don't have the people. We have the locations, but we can't fill them all.” There are about 24 openings in the Iowa Quad Cities and 16 on the Illinois side. Bell ringers can choose which side of the river they want to be on and can even choose a specific city. Click here for information on volunteering on the Iowa side and here to volunteer in Illinois. (OurQuadCities.com) Major Gates says bell ringing isn’t an all-day commitment. “We have two shifts. Some will go the whole time, but we try doing at least four hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then 2 – 6 p.m.” Volunteers can be any age, but minors must be accompanied by family. “We have a teenager who did it with her mother. They took a Hy-Vee that has two doors, so Mom was at one and the teenager was at the other one. They were both together earlier in the day, they were at another location that Mom was right there with her because there was only one door.” The donations collected during the Red Kettle campaign are a crucial part of the organization’s budget. “This is our major fundraising for the whole year,” said Major Gates. “This is a big part of our budget. We use the mail appeals, but this is the big push.” The campaign ends on Christmas Eve. The need for bell ringers isn’t limited to the Quad Cities. “If there's a local Salvation Army, contact them,” she said. Bell ringers are needed across the QCA, including Burlington, Muscatine and Galesburg.
	He spent seven hours trapped under the Aggie bonfire at Texas A&M and wasn’t expected to survive. 25 years later, he’s married with kids John Comstock's injuries were so severe Texas A&M University drafted a press release announcing his death.
	Joe Bonamassa, November 29 A genuine blues-rock legend who famously opened for B.B. King when he was only 12 years old, singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Joe Bonamassa makes his eagerly awaited return to Davenport's Adler Theatre on November 29, treating fans to the hard-driving talents that have resulted in 27 chart-topping Billboard Blues Albums (more than any other artist in history) three Grammy Award nominations, and collaborations with some of blues music's most iconic performers.
	“Liverpool Legends: The Complete Beatles Experience,” November 30 Taking place in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the Beatles coming to the United States for their iconic appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, the touring sensation Liverpool Legends: The Complete Beatles Experience lands at Davenport's Adler Theatre on November 30, treating audience to a pitch-perfect approximation of a Fab Four experience and multi-media celebration of the group that changed the music world forever.
	Sunny Jain, December 3 and 4 An Indian American dhol player, drummer, and Indo jazz composer lauded by Coda Magazine for his "groundbreaking synthesis," Sunny Jain serves as the latest guest in Quad City Arts' Visiting Artist Series, his three public events on December 3 and 4 delivering a celebration of cultural diaspora: deep-rooted tradition that ripples outward, changing – and being changed by – the cultures that it touches.
	“Christmas with the Laurence Hobgood Trio,” December 1 Performing a wonderful repertoire of jazz favorites and seasonal classics, three acclaimed artists take the stage at Moline's Sound Conservatory on December 1, the group behind Christmas with the Laurence Hobgood Trio lauded by the Chicago Tribune for delivering “power without noise, energy without haste, drama without overstatement.”
	Color Green, November 30 Touring in support of their acclaimed sophomore album Fools Parade, the summertime release hailed by Far Out Magazine as "another stellar bag of sincere and captivating psychedelia," the California-based rockers of Color Green headline a November 30 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, their latest inspiring Psychedelic Scene to rave, "With each note and every lyric, they invite listeners to join them on a transcendent sonic adventure, where the only limit is the boundless expanse of the imagination."
	“A Johnny & June Country Christmas,” November 30 Boasting timeless Johnny Cash songs including "I Walk the Line," "Ring of Fire," and "A Boy Named Sue" alongside such June Carter Cash hits as "Jackson," "If I Were a Carpenter," and "It Ain’t Me," A Johnny & June Country Christmas enjoys an engagement at Maquoketa's Ohnward Fine Arts Center on November 30, this yuletide treat also featuring your favorite Christmas songs performed by music greats Bennie Wheels and Lori Gravel.

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Tuesday, November 19th, 2024