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Nampa man arrested on felony child exploitation charges after swift multi-agency investigation

A Nampa man is now in custody, facing multiple felony charges related to the production and distribution of child pornography.

Tuesday, October 14, investigators with the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, along with officers from multiple local and federal law enforcement agencies, arrested 25-year-old Steven Vasquez of Nampa for alleged sexual exploitation of a child.

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Ex-NFL player Doug Martin struggled with mental health issues before OPD in-custody death: family

“Well, you know, it hasn’t been too long ago he was in rehab and out recently from that. And I think a lot of our hopes were that, you know, maybe some of the personal demons that he was facing was getting behind him,” said Nick Perkins.

Perkins also met Martin in Boise. He says he was a fun-loving, stand-up guy who was very involved with the community and who helped put Boise State on the map nationally for football.

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Government shutdown may hold up November SNAP benefits for 125,000 Idahoans

As a result of the ongoing government shutdown, Idaho SNAP recipients could not receive benefits that were slated to be paid in November.

Local News 8 has learned that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) sent a letter to the states regarding the impact of the shutdown on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. While the letter has not been officially released to the public, Local News 8 has confirmed that copies leaked on social media are authentic.

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Authorities warn of rising Bitcoin scams in Eastern Idaho

Authorities are warning residents to be cautious as Bitcoin-related scams become more common in the area. Victims are reportedly being tricked into sending money to fake investment sites or scare tactics, often losing thousands of dollars with little chance of getting it back.

“Criminals are calling Idaho seniors pretending to be from a legitimate business or government agency, then directing them to deposit thousands of dollars into cryptocurrency machines at gas stations to supposedly fix computer problems or pay fake fines,” said Attorney General Labrador. “If anyone demands you put cash into a cryptocurrency ATM for any reason, it’s more than likely a scam and you should report it immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

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Increased ICE raids raises concerns in Eastern Idaho following federal raid in Wilder

A federal immigration raid at an Idaho horse track over the weekend led to the detention of dozens of individuals by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), raising a torrent of online speculation regarding legal and civil rights concerns.

The raid took place while a public horse racing event was in progress, with a large crowd in attendance, according to a report by KIVI. Eyewitnesses reported a significant law enforcement presence, noting that several officers were wearing masks, stating that ICE detained at least 50 more individuals than the FBI during the operation.

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“Operation No Return”: Dozens of convicted undocumented aliens removed from Idaho jails under new initiative

Governor Brad Little today announced a new state-funded initiative, “Operation No Return,” designed to ensure undocumented individuals convicted of crimes in Idaho are transferred directly to federal immigration custody for deportation immediately upon completing their sentences.

The program, funded through the Governor’s Office Emergency Funds, has already led to the removal of dozens of individuals to date. According to the Governor’s Office, these individuals, all determined to be in the United States illegally, will be deported to their country of origin rather than being released back into Idaho communities after serving their time.

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Pocatello man arrested for alleged Idaho Capitol bomb threat

A Pocatello man has been arrested in connection with a bomb threat made earlier this month to a state government building in Boise.

On October 8, 2025, at approximately 10:14 a.m., the Pocatello Police Department responded to a report of a 58-year-old man making multiple threatening phone calls to employees of a property management company in Pocatello. During those calls, he allegedly made statements threatening violence, including threats to “blow them up.”

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“Guarded by Predators”: From one voice to many: Women speak out on Idaho prison abuse

Editor’s note: The article discusses sexual assault.
In June 2024, Andrea Weiskircher thought her life was over. 

She was sobbing in a jail cell in Boise thinking about what she had just done. Encouraged by a former Idaho Department of Correction case manager, Weiskircher reluctantly filed complaints against the Idaho prison workers who had sexually abused her. It was the right thing to do. But now she faced another prison sentence and, she feared, retaliation for speaking up.

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“Gaurded by Predators”: In Idaho women’s prisons, guards get away with sexual abuse and victims are blamed

Editor’s note: The article discusses sexual assault.

If they hadn’t met in prison, none of it would have happened like this. On the outside, Jamie Hamilton would have been polite to Derek Stettler, maybe have had “a conversation,” she’d later tell an investigator. It probably would have ended there. She would have avoided years of trauma. He might still be alive.

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Part 1: “Corporal Q”: The Idaho prison guard who preyed on women — and the system that hid his ‘predatory’ conduct

In January 2018, a woman imprisoned at South Idaho Correctional Institution outside Boise was taken to a medical clinic to get abnormal cervical tissue removed. A guard named Ricardo Quiroz — known among inmates as “Corporal Q” — was her only escort, and he let her sit up front in a white van.

Afterward, still in pain and bleeding from the procedure, she and Quiroz walked back to the van. This time, she tells InvestigateWest, Quiroz told her to go all the way to the back. She complied. He followed her, telling her to take off her pants, says the woman, who asked to be referred to by her middle name, Lynn.

“There’s certain times where you fight, and there’s certain times that you don’t, and when you’re an inmate …,” Lynn trails off.

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California Sheriff’s Lieutenant killed in Idaho hunting accident, fundraiser launched for family

In the wake of the shooting, the Riverside Sheriff’s Association has shared a Help A Hero fundraiser on behalf of Kass’s family. As of Thursday, the fundraiser has raised $11,590 of its $80,000 goal.

The fundraiser states, “He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and loyal friend. Nathan’s character as a protector and mentor strengthened his impact on the many walks of life he encountered.”

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Mountain Home leaders clarify details on Qatar Emiri Air Force training facility

Mountain Home city officials held a press conference Tuesday to address questions about last week’s announcement of a new Qatar Emiri Air Force training facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base.

The U.S. Defense Department announced the establishment of the facility Friday, with Qatar expected to bring 12 jets to Mountain Home under a partnership similar to the existing arrangement with the Singaporean Air Force.

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‘It’s a Need, Not a Luxury’: South Fremont High seeks long-awaited auditorium

“This is something that we need to happen for our students. Some people think it’s just going to be more luxurious and more comfortable for us, but the fact is, we haven’t had a performance space for 30 years, and it’s a need for these students to continue to grow their musicality (and) it’s a need for our community to have a space for our arts,” Band and choir director Matt Bennett, said.

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Judge Finds Probable Cause: Island Park Voter Fraud Case advances, preliminary hearings for other defendants set for late October

A voter fraud case against Chad Vanderbeek will proceed after a judge ruled today that the prosecution met the burden of proof for probable cause.

Vanderbeek is one of eleven defendants accused of illegally voting in the 2023 Fremont County municipal election by allegedly using an Island Park address. Judge Eddings announced his ruling in a near-empty courtroom, with at least two seats filled by Vanderbeek’s visibly disappointed family.

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Your Health Idaho’s Open Enrollment begins: Insurance premiums set to double for 117,000 as tax credits near expiration

Today, Idaho became the first state in the nation to open Enrollment for 2026 health insurance, but the period is marked by uncertainty due to the potential expiration of Biden-era health insurance tax credits. If Congress does not act before the end of the year, an estimated 117,000 Idahoans who use marketplace plans could see their insurance premiums more than doubled, according to independent researchers.

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The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho Launches “Foster the Arts” Program

“Foster families play such a vital role in our community,” said Amy Thompson, Development Director at TAM and former foster parent. Thompson’s family provided foster care for six years, ultimately adopting one of their children through the foster system.

“They are helping children heal, grow, and find their footing again—and we believe art can be an important part of that process. We’re honored to create a space where families can connect, create, and find joy together through art.”

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IDOC confirms authenticity of leaked Bryan Kohberger prison video, no charges filed

The Idaho Department of Correction has confirmed the authenticity of a video leaked on social media earlier this year, which appeared to show convicted killer Bryan Kohberger inside his prison cell. In a statement first provided to our sister station, KIVI in Boise, IDOC confirmed that the individual responsible for the policy violation has been identified.

“The Idaho Department of Correction conducted a thorough investigation into the matter of the leaked video and is pleased the individual responsible for the policy violation was identified and has since left the agency. The case was referred to the Idaho State Police which determined there was insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct and will continue to enforce all policies to protect the security of inmates and staff…”

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Great harvest, tight wallets: Why Idaho farmers are still struggling

ccording to a USDA report released last month, the total value of agricultural production in Idaho in 2024 was $12.6 billion, a 3% increase from the previous year. Sean Ellis of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation says while 2025 looks to be a good year for yield as well, expenses are not going down.

Intermediate farm production expenses in Idaho totaled $7.2 billion in 2024, according to the USDA report, a significant 6% jump from 2023.

“The problem is the commodity prices are so low that even with the great yields, it’s still a struggle,” says Alan Clark, owner and manager of Clark Farms. “You know, you’re just barely able to make payments and things like that.”

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“More people, less food” Demand soars amid donation drop, government shutdown concern

The Idaho Falls Community Food Basket is grappling with a seasonal spike in food insecurity, compounded by the ongoing government shutdown, while simultaneously facing historic lows in donations.

The Food Basket has seen donations drop by a staggering 400,000 pounds over the past year. This means directors are now forced to feed significantly more families with significantly fewer resources.

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Idaho Secretary of State’s VoteIdaho.gov wins national award for digital innovation

“Our goal with the redesign of VoteIdaho.gov was simple – to make voting information engaging, accessible, and easy to consume for all Idahoans,” said Secretary Phil McGrane. “We’re continuing to build on the features that make the website stand out. I encourage all Idahoans to visit the site to easily register to vote, check and update your registration, view a sample ballot for the upcoming November election, find your polling place, and much more.”

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Lost hiker found in chance encounter with mountain bikers after three days in Idaho backcountry

The disappearance of an Idaho woman ended with an unexpected rescue after she spent three days lost in the remote mountains of central Idaho. 46-year-old Heather Wayment of Gooding, Idaho, was found approximately 17 miles from her vehicle by a group of Pocatello mountain bikers—who were not involved in the official search effort.

Wayment was reported missing by her family on September 17, 2025. She was last seen the previous day, and her vehicle was quickly located in the Prairie Creek area of Blaine County, Idaho.

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Putting kids first: new coalition helping families afford child care in Southeast Idaho

“If you have an infant, you want to put them in childcare, that’s equal to a semester’s tuition at Idaho State University,” said Jeff Hough, chair of the Bannock County Board of Commissioners and founding member of the KIDS First Coalition. “If you are a single parent and only making $15 to $18 an hour, you can’t afford to work and have childcare; so what this program is designed to do is to help ease that burden so that you can go back to the workforce rather than being on a welfare program.”

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Teton County registered sex offender charged with multiple child exploitation felonies following tip from hospital staff

A registered sex offender out of Teton County is now facing up to 87 years in prison after hospital staff reported him for possession of child pornography.

Dennis Joe Empey of Driggs is charged with two counts of felony sexual battery-solicit participation of a minor child 16 to 17 years of age, two counts of disseminating material harmful to a minor, one count of possession of child sexually exploitative material, and distribution of child sexually exploitative material.

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Idaho Fish and Game urges vigilance after bear attack injures hiker in Fremont County

Idaho Fish and Game is issuing an important safety warning to all outdoor enthusiasts after a lone hiker was injured in a bear attack near Squirrel Creek on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

IDFG states that the man was hiking along the South rim of Squirrel Creek when he was charged by a bear from thick timber at close range. The bear bit the man as it ran past him before quickly leaving the area.

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Gov. Little appoints Pete Koehler to Idaho State Board of Education

“I am honored to join the Idaho State Board of Education and to continue serving the people of our state. Education has shaped both my military and civilian careers, and I believe it is the foundation for a strong and thriving Idaho. I look forward to working with my fellow board members to expand opportunities for every student, whether that means preparing for college, career, or civic life, and to ensure that education in Idaho remains accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of our communities,” Koehler said.

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ITD’s popular “Name a Snowplow” Contest returns

In preparation for winter, the Idaho Transportation Department is excitedly bringing back its popular “Name a Snowplow’ contest, inviting students across the Gem State to put their creativity to the test.

“Our snowplow drivers are thrilled to see students getting involved in this fun, educational opportunity that also highlights the importance of winter driving safety,” said Scott Stokes, Director of ITD.

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From pumpkins to tomatoes: Chubbuck gardener grows record-breaking produce

Local gardener, Cliff Warren, recently set a new state record for largest tomato with a whopping 3.57-pound fruit; the tomato went through a rigorous weighing and judging process before it was declared a record-breaker at the Center Street Giant Pumpkin Festival in Logan, Utah, on September 27.
“We had a lot of space and I always wanted to be a gardener,” said Warren. “My sister went to the library and found a book, ‘How to Grow Giant Pumpkins’; I read the book, I got hooked, and I’ve been growing giant pumpkins ever since.”

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Idaho Regulators approve Intermountain Gas rate adjustment: Residential bills down, commercial bills up

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has approved an application from Intermountain Gas that will decrease the rates for some customers and increase rates for others.

The utility had sought commission approval to decrease rates for residential customers and increase rates for large volume, commercial and transport customers. The typical residential customer’s monthly bill will decrease by $0.06, or 0.03 percent. The other customer groups will see their monthly bills increase between $435.10 and $649.24, depending on their rate schedule

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Flags lowered statewide to honor fallen Idaho wildland firefighter Isabella Oscarson

“Idahoans are grieving the loss of Isabella Oscarson, a promising young woman whose life was cut far too short while serving the people of Idaho as a wildland firefighter. Her loss is felt deeply by the firefighting community and beyond. Please join Teresa and me in praying for Isabella’s loved ones and her Idaho Department of Lands team,” Governor Little said in a news release.

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Butte Co. Sheriff investigating high school student confrontation involving firearm

nvestigators have determined the incident originated at a local high school on Thursday, September 25, and escalated after school hours at a city park, according to a BCSO press release.

During the park altercation, one young man presented a gun. Fortunately, the other individuals involved were able to secure the firearm from the individual. Authorities have confirmed that no one was injured in the incident, and the gun was never fired. Following the confrontation, all parties went their separate ways.

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“I Don’t See Them Backing Down”: Representative Fulcher details shutdown holdups to Local News 8

The United States government is bracing for a potential shutdown as a critical funding deadline looms at the end of tomorrow, with Congress deadlocked over a new spending bill. Negotiations in the Senate, where a successful bill requires 60 votes, have stalled, as Democrats refuse to support the current Republican proposal without major compromises.

Idaho Congressman Russ Fulcher identified the major sticking points to Local News 8, saying Democrats are pushing for changes vehemently opposed by Republicans. According to Fulcher, the Democrats are trying to undo several ‘hard-fought Republican victories’ in the form of the Big Beautiful Bill.

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Idaho Walk Bike Alliance encourages Pocatellans to ditch their cars this week

The Idaho Walk Bike Alliance (IWBA) has partnered with national pedestrian-advocacy organization America Walks to bring a ‘Week Without Driving’ to the Portneuf Valley.

“This week gives you a glimpse into how many things you can do without actually getting in your vehicle, and you still get to a lot of the places you want to get to,” said ‘Cowboy’ Ted Hallisey, with IWBA.

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AG Labrador asks Supreme Court to reject attempt to dismiss Idaho’s Women’s Sports Act case

“After five years, Idaho’s law protecting women’s sports has finally reached the U.S. Supreme Court. Now, the ACLU wants to drop the case because they know the strength of our argument,” said Attorney General Labrador. “But the legal arguments of one male athlete do not change the facts: Under Ninth Circuit precedent, girls across Idaho can still be forced to compete against boys. That’s not fair, it’s not safe, and it strips young women of equal opportunities. We’re urging the Court to affirm that states have the authority to preserve and protect women’s sports.”

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Three decades later, Lava Hot Springs remembers the terrors of Ligertown

On September 20, 1995, just before sunset, the town’s tranquility was shattered by a single, sharp rifle crack. Lava Hot Springs was about to become world famous: the lions of Ligertown were on the prowl.

For those who grew up in the shadow of Ligertown, the presence of the big cats had become a strange kind of normal. Bonnie Hansen, Bruce and Colleen’s daughter, remembers clearly what it was like having the big cats as neighbors.

“Growing up, it was normal to hear the lions roar morning and night, and so every night before the sun would go down, the lions would roar and the wolves would howl,” says Bonnie Hansen. “That was normal for me growing up. I didn’t know how weird that was.”

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Two semi-truck drivers hospitalized after rear-end collision north of Rupert

Two men were hospitalized Tuesday night after a dual semi truck crash on State Highway 24 north of Rupert.

According to the Idaho State Police, just after 5 PM, a 2010 Kenworth semi, driven by a 38-year-old Rupert man, was stopped in the northbound lane to make a left-hand turn. A 43-year-old man from Albuquerque, New Mexico, driving a 1983 International semi, then struck the Kenworth from behind.

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