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Knott County Judge, Other County Officials Indicted Save Email Print
Posted: 10:18 AM Nov 30, 2007
 Last Updated: 8:56 PM Nov 30, 2007
 Reporter: Danielle Morgan
Email Address: danielle.morgan@wymtnews.com
81 comments
A | A | A

Four Eastern Kentucky officials are arrested on fraud charges.

Prosecutors say Knott County Judge Executive Randy Thompson, two deputies in his office, and a magistrate were involved in a vote buying scheme. It's the second time in a row that a Knott County judge executive has been indicted on federal vote buying charges. Former Judge Executive Donnie Newsome was convicted of the crime in 2003. There's mixed reaction in Hindman about possible abuse of public funds again.

As Knott County Judge Executive, Randy Thompson brought a lot of tourism focused projects to the county such as an ATV training center, a skate park, and a multi-million dollar sportsplex.

"I've known Randy for 30 years. In that time, I've never known of Randy doing anything wrong. Randy's always been a big dreamer and a hard worker and when you do that, you've got a winner and Knott County had a winner in Randy Thompson for the last few years," said Sportsplex Director Rhett Gibson.

Back in July, federal agents shut down four county offices taking boxes of paperwork. That's when more questions stirred about just how the first ever Republican judge executive got elected.

"If he done wrong, lets straighten this county out. Lets make this a nice county to live in where we can all live in it and do right and quit the wrong. It's been that way for years and it's not getting any better," said Knott County Resident Roy Jent.

Following the visit from the feds, the state auditor reported numerous questionable county records including nearly $800,000 dollars in county road expenses that couldn't be validated.

The indictment accuses Judge Thompson, Deputy Judge Executives Phillip Champion and Mac Combs, as well as Magistrate Ronnie Adams of conspiring together to pave private driveways and build more than ten bridges to connect private and public roads all in exchange to vote for Thompson in the November 2006 election. All four men pleaded not guilty to the charges and were released on their own recognizance. As part of the conditions of their release, the men must stay in Eastern Kentucky and must not have any contact with victims or possible witnesses in the case.

A trial date for all four men was set for February 5th.

Officials would not comment on whether more arrests will be made in the case.
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Posted by: knott countian Location: fisty,ky. on Jun 24, 2008 at 11:37 PM
i've lived in knott co. all my life. i WAS a dem. untill they started killing babies,and supporting gay marriage. i've never seen any one do for knott co. what randy thompson has. mike hall GET OVER IT1
Posted by: Knott Countian Location: Knott on May 21, 2008 at 11:32 AM
You know if he is guilty punish him if not, leave him alone , to stand and go on and on about this is stupid. Either let him live his life or punish him. Knott countians love to be nosey and start trouble. I live in perry county all my life and when I got married and moved to Knott County I couln't believe the difference in how people love to get in other peoples business. They are the worst I ever seen . You know he has done alot for our children and he also does alot for the whole community if Mike Hall had gotten in just think we still wouldnt have anything. Leave him alone
Posted by: Barb Location: Chicago, Illinois on Feb 2, 2008 at 01:18 PM
I was born and raised in Knott County. Had to leave, no work there. When you finally get someone in the office, Randy Thompson, who gets the county going in the right direction, this happens. He has done more for Knott County than anyone in the past two decades. I have never been a republican, and still I love the democratic party, but, while I was living there, he got my vote, and that was one of the best votes I ever made.
Posted by: Robin Location: Hindman KY on Jan 8, 2008 at 09:59 AM
I TOTALLY, COMPLETELY , NO DOUBT , DISAGREE WITH MIKE HALL !!!!!! I was lookin at the coments and I saw his comment !!! He is wrong !!!!!! Randy Thompson is a GREAT MAN !!!
Posted by: Holly Location: Hindman KY on Jan 8, 2008 at 09:56 AM
I think that phillip is the best perso never !!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Julie Location: Knott on Jan 4, 2008 at 06:41 PM
Our judge Randy has done more for Knott County than any other judge has in the past. He will say hello every time you see him out. He is a good judge. I would vote for him again no matter what he runs for.
Posted by: ASHAMED OF kNOTT CO. AGAIN on Dec 5, 2007 at 08:30 PM
KNOTT CO.MAFIA!? YOU HAVE BEEN WATCHING TOO MANY MOVIES! YOU'RE GIVING THEM WAY TOO MUCH CREDIT. DO YOU HONESTLY THINK ANYONE CAN INFLUENCE A FEDERAL AGENCY? YOU'RE REALLY SHOWING YOUR LIMITED MENTAL CAPABILITES. HOW ABOUT CALLING WHAT IT IS? FRAUD AND PLAIN ILLEGAL VOTE BUYING THAT HAS LANDED RANDY THOMPSON AND HIS ASSOCIATES RIGHT WHERE THEY BELONG. IN TROUBLE WITH THE FEDS. I THINK EVERYONE NEEDS TO BE CAREFUL WHAT THEY HEAR AND READ ALSO. THERE'S NOTHING LIKE HAVING YOUR OWN RADIO STATION TO TELL YOUR SLANTED VERSION OF THE TRUTH. IT ALSO HELPS WHEN YOU HAVE ALL YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS AND EMPLOYEES WHO WRITE BLOGS FOR YOU GIVING THEIR UNDYING SUPPORT. AS FOR RANDY BEING THE BEST JUDGE IN YEARS, HOW SOON YOU FORGET. JUST DON'T FORGET, EVERYTHING RANDY HAS DONE, HE HAS DONE ON HIS OWN FREE WILL. HE WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR THAT.
Posted by: mike hall Location: pinetop on Dec 3, 2007 at 06:14 PM
i did not mean to cut u down randy u are just like donnie go run the office like donnie did behind bars were u need 2 stay we know how u won an its a shame
Posted by: Telling the Truth Location: Knott County on Dec 3, 2007 at 06:08 PM
Honestly I Know only two of the four officials. I personaly Know Randy Thompson, And Phillip Champion. They are innocent good men that are Christians that are just trying to raise their kids. Randy's 6 kids and wife and Phillip's trying to raise his 2 girls and wife. All they are doing is giving Knott County something. Mike Hall would do anything to get them in trouble. MIKE if they are in jail the sportsplex will still be running and making money so thibnk about that. You are not only hurting the county but their families and KIDS at christmas time. Have a heart Mike. Phillip and Randy are innocent. They have nothing to be ashamed of over going to jail. It just shows how tuff they are for the county. Hold your head up high.They are good people. I'm a democrat and will never vote democratic again. REPUBLICAN ALL THE WAY. Randy,Phillip,Ronnie,& Mac, GOD is on our side. I want everyone to know whos side im on. RANDY THOMPSON,PHILLIP CHAMPION, RONNIE ADAMS, MAC COMBS. GOD is with you.
Posted by: Concerned citizen Location: Mousie on Dec 3, 2007 at 03:12 PM
I have been a registered democrat since I turned 18 because my parents told me that democrats were good people. WRONG! Sorry Mom and Dad..I am still a registered democrat and I do not ever anticipate voting democrat again!I worked in a county office for 14 years in Knott county several years ago and i now work in Perry County. The days of Mike Hall telling everybody what to do is over! GET OVER IT MIKE! I was linked with Randy for years before he began his political careers and I stood among about 7-8 ladies and gentlemen in Lexington, Louisville, Cincinatti as we all dreamed of things like the Spotsplex in Eastern KY! This man has a vision for our county which is a very bright vision! In the last 20 years I have had to run off gravel trucks which came to my house during elections wanting to gravel my drive and stick their sign up. I have never allowed it or will i ever! This has went on for many many years. I think that if Randy is prosecuted, we need to back up for MANY years and pro!
Posted by: Jeremy Location: Elizabethtown on Dec 3, 2007 at 02:38 PM
This just goes to show how screwed up that county is. No where else on earth is the main issue for the county gravel! Don't worry about education and the economy, just make sure I have gravel! It is funny to watch them try to get in power over a county that amounts to nothing. Keep it up Knott Co., you are good for a laugh.
Posted by: Thank God Location: Knott Co on Dec 3, 2007 at 02:24 PM
I live on a co. road and a bus even travels the road- we all tried to get gravels-- spoke to Randy myself- he said I will send someone out to look at the road-- I suppose that I am still waiting... recently the county lay blacktop to a private drive just below me, the ruts in the road I travel is pitiful- I am glad... now maybe he will understand the difference between private and public roads..
Posted by: Catherine Location: Carr Creek on Dec 3, 2007 at 01:44 PM
Let's see . . . we have two county judges, one a coal operator, politician, and a Democrat; the second a businessman with no previous involvement in politics and a Republican. What do they have in common besides accusations and indictments? They both opposed the chosen candidate of the MAFIA. I used to just automatically have respect for law enforcement -- now what a joke. The FBI is honorable? This mess smells to high heaven. All the rotten political things in Knott County throughout the years, and nobody ever investigates anything . . . until the MAFIA doesn't get their way. Randy Thompson is a good man who has tried to help the whole county, including people he had to know were against him. This is wrong, wrong, wrong. Why doesn't everybody wake up? It's obvious from many of these comments that people know who is really behind this. Why doesn't the truth come out? Is the only way to escape the control of the MAFIA to move away?
Posted by: Taxpayer Location: Amburgey on Dec 2, 2007 at 06:56 PM
Randy Thompson has done more for this county in the short time that he has been in office, than anyone else had done in the years before. So what if he is a republican. He gets the job done and that is all that matters. Randy actually cares about the people of Knott County. I want to thank Randy for all that he has done and I pray that he gets the chance to continue improving Knott County. We should stand behind him and support him.
Posted by: george Location: carr creek on Dec 2, 2007 at 12:01 PM
The timing seems awful funny here. This comes after the democrats win back the governers office and if Randy is found guilty guess who appoints the replacement? Knott will have one of the mafia put in that they can control and Knott County will go back to the same old thing of no progress and welfare checks to keep the status quo. The real winners here are Hazard and Prestonsburg who will reap finacial rewards from the continued incompentence of the Knott Co Mafia.
Posted by: me too Location: kite on Dec 2, 2007 at 11:30 AM
they are always after the ones that give, what about those on the recieving end,,they want the blacktop,gravel ,and so yet when it is all over they want to tell on what happened.they deserve jail time for the sale of their vote. also does anyone not think that those people that have a private drive desrve anything,GUESS WHAT!!! THEY PAY TAXES TOO!
Posted by: mike hall Location: pinetop on Dec 2, 2007 at 11:15 AM
we need a change an its time for one we the people have been cheated for several years its up to us to make the change
Posted by: Bud Location: Lexington on Dec 2, 2007 at 09:49 AM
I don't know any of the Knott county officials, except Mr. Champion. It seems to me that all of you have a strong support from the citizens of that area. If they continue to support you guys , it certainly can't hurt. Good luck to all 4 of you.
Posted by: Knott County Resident Location: Hindman, Ky on Dec 2, 2007 at 09:30 AM
First, let me state that I am a Knott County, Ky registered Democrat. I also have lived all of my life of fifty years here in Knott County, with the exception of my years away attending college. I must say that Judge Thompson has worked harder and improved the life of all our citizens here in this county than any other Judge Executive that I have known. Anyone who lives in this area of the Commonwealth knows that monies have most probably been spent inadvertantly on non-public properties. I seriously doubt that a survey crew travels along with the paving machines to insure that not one gravel, or blacktop, is applied to private property. This is nothing, in my opinion, short of political payback from the good ole boys here that are struggling with the positive movement this county is witnessing due to the tireless work of Judge Thompson. I see absolutely no financial gain for Judge Thompson for what he has done while he has served the citizens of Knott County. God Bless You Judge!
Posted by: terry Location: knott county on Dec 2, 2007 at 09:24 AM
I dont think that the FBI would have filed charges against these men if they didnt have proof. I agree that Randy and his followers have done alot for the county,but he isnt the only one. The things that has delveloped in the county was in the works before he got in the office. I dont think this has anything to do with Randy being a Republican. I think it has to do with certain people getting gravel and blacktop and bridges and not the whole county. It is a shame that a person pays taxes all of his life and never gets anything from the county but if a person sells his vote then he gets anything from them. All this wont stop until people in this county stand up and stop selling their vote. The people should be ashame of their actions because they are the ones that sold their votes. My vote is not for sell for anything. I guess that is the reason I dont get anything. I think that all these people who got gravel,blacktop, and bridges should have to pay it back and get jail time too.
Posted by: JERRY Location: OHIO on Dec 2, 2007 at 05:03 AM
I WORKED FOR THE COUNTY IN THE 70S UNDER TWO JUDGES-DRIVING A GRAVEL TRUCK DUMPING GRAVEL TO A PRIVATE ROAD--BUILDING BRIDIGES TO PRIVATE HOUSES TO AND A CORNFIELD TO NAME A FEW---KNOTT COUNTY IS ONE OF THE CROOKEST COUNTYS IN KY--SOME COUNTY ROADS DONT GET ANY GRAVEL----LIKE PINE TREE HOLLER --BLACK TOPED HALF THE WAY -O-WELL--U GET WHAT YOU VOTE FOR-----OR DO YOU___?????
Posted by: Wondering on Dec 2, 2007 at 12:48 AM
As I read the news once again I have to wonder if the former officials that have problems with Mr. Thompson have children or grandchildren they could not possibly care about them if they do. I have seen nothing but great concern and interest for our young people from Mr. Thompson in the last 2 years. There is 30 or more of our young kids from Knott County working at that new sportsplex giving them the opportunity to save money for college or help pay for their senior year of high school. This allows them a chance to work close to home and not be on the roads to hazard or prestonsburg. what else could a parent want from their elected official someone who is trying to make our county a better place to live in for our young people giving them something to be proud of and stay here and start their own families without have to move 2, 3,hours away. For all those parents that care and want better for your children let's get behind Mr. Thompson and support his dreams for our young people!
Posted by: at last Location: knott on Dec 1, 2007 at 06:29 PM
to you critizing other past politicians. I did not know the f.b.i.has ever run for office or would pick on somebody because they won the election.The F.B.I.surely would not pick on a little bitty co like Knott.As for all the recreation---We are in debt up to our eyeballs.Knott Co needs places to work not to play.And you people know blacktop went on driveway after driveway while roads went without and all at election time.Most of the postive comments are from people that got some thing from the election or works for the County.Would you say the 12 men laid of feel real good about all this money being spent and they got laid off.How would you feel if it was your husband or child.The F.B.I.are honorable and did not lie.I am glad we have them.Also It is wrong when a person takes our tax payer money and buys votes and beats another man.This is not what our county has elections for.I feel for Randys family bur Ialso feel worse for people beat by votes bought away from them.
Posted by: Josie Location: somewere over te rainbow! on Dec 1, 2007 at 04:13 PM
Thank God Randy,Phillip,Mac,and Ronnie are out of jail. Even though they arn't being treated right..God is still in control...no matter what!! We just got to learn to fight back
Posted by: Knott Co has a great Judge Location: West Kentucky on Dec 1, 2007 at 04:03 PM
Randy Thompson and those who work for him have done great things for Knott County and the entire region! They built a skate park, finished the swimming pool (which many said would never get done), built a Sportsplex that attracted 48 teams the 1st weekend it opened. 1500 kids and their parents coming to Knott County for tournaments has been fantastic for the local gas stations, restaurants & others. And the first month, the facility actually cleared $50,000. The County built one of only 5 ATV Training Centers in the U.S. to help teach both children and adults how to ride safely. They started the annual Trail Ride which this Fall attracted 3,000 riders and 1,500 horses from as far away as Texas, Florida and Utah. They have expanded water and sewer in the county, improved roads. They have created a tourist commission to help promote Knott County. The short time they have been in office, they have made the county so much better! Stand up and let them know you appreciate them!
Posted by: Ethan Location: knott county on Dec 1, 2007 at 03:00 PM
ok, so, randy thompson is in jail. and now we're out another judge. awesome. but really, what has he done for the county? built a sports facility that has been needed for years, opened a nice trial ride, a skate park to occupy the troubled youth in not only our county but several others. and bought votes. i wonder how many other county judge executives have bought votes and gotten away with it. if i had to guess i would say just about all of them. what makes this different, i'll tell you. he actually accomplished something. so why should he be persicuted? anyway, if he goes to prison i'd imagine we would go back to the same old democrat judges that dont do anything except line thier own pockets. but, if thats what Knott county wants, let them have. maybe we can just go ahead a get back into a 50% poverty rate. everyone loves thier welfare check.
Posted by: sue Location: pinetop on Dec 1, 2007 at 02:48 PM
phillip champion is a good man just got caught in with the wrong crowd for trying to work and raise his girls,,, all i have ot say
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Knott Ounty on Dec 1, 2007 at 12:52 PM
This is ridiculous. They all get what they deserve for dealing with the people they choose to associate with. Randy was in close ties with Newsome's administration, therefore what did Knott countians expect? All politicians do it for the power trip and Randy is the perfect example. The sportsplex and "activities" are not necessarily for everyones benefit. He's obviously been giving jobs, blacktop and whatever else allowed by his power to keep his political power intact. If you actually spend time with him, you can tell where you stand because if your family doesn't hold great political "pull" you are not treated nicely at all. I'm not saying others don't do it but he got caught so its time to pay the piper.
Posted by: Anti mtn.mafia Location: pippa passes on Dec 1, 2007 at 12:28 PM
The Mtn.Mafia has struck again.They won't be happy unless thier man is in office.It's all about the money if they don't control it they arn't happy.well this will make two they ran out of office because they didn't have control of where the money went.I wonder whose next? Maybe you unless we stand up and fight for our county.
Posted by: upset Location: knott county on Dec 1, 2007 at 11:52 AM
IT UPSETS ME THAT PEOPLE SUPPORT THIS CROOK. I SAW THE ROAD THAT WAS BLACKTOPED TO A HORSE BARN, NO HOUSES. I SAW ALL THE NEW BRIDGES, ALL THE GRAVEL. COULD GO ON AND ON BUT IT ANGERS ME. I'M GLAD THAT PEOPLE WHO DO WRONG GET PUNISHED. STICK IT TO HIM!
Posted by: ??? Location: mousie on Dec 1, 2007 at 09:42 AM
Randy has done a great job for our county, and if he gets pushed out this county will go back to having nothing as it always has been
Posted by: Under-Educated and Under-Paid Location: The greatest county in the World.. (http://www.knottcountyky.net/) on Dec 1, 2007 at 08:46 AM
Benny "has been" Bailey" I mean the good ol' boy back at work again. Here is some proof that Knott County is more Republican than what you think(http://elect.ky.gov/NR/rdonlyres/D2B05BBA-C49D-4620-B1D8-1B29BCC603D2/4961/res_KNOTT1.txt) That was the election results when Lois Combs Weinberg A KNOTT COUNT-IAN running on the Democratic ticket only got 66 percent 4,115 of the vote against Mitch McConnell A WESTERN KENTUCKY REPUBLICAN who accumulated 2,110 votes. Hal Rogers carried Knott Co on the Republican ticket not only in the fall of 2002 but as well in the 2006 election, the same election Randy Thompson won in. I am just stating fact's, something you rarely hear with the media. This is not about vote buying it's about a little thing called politics. For those of you that hasnt been to Knott Co. Randy Thompson has not gave us everything we asked for, we expected him to be like the previous Judges but in return we got more than this county of Twenty-Thousand could have asked for.
Posted by: concerned citizen Location: Hindman on Dec 1, 2007 at 07:59 AM
I am a working citizen who has voted in every election since I turned 18. I always fulfill my duties in the democratic process. It was a disgrace during the last election in the number of private drives which were paved with tax money. I dont see how someone could lay down at night knowing they were wasting our tax dollars in this way. It is no wonder Knott county is such a rat hole. People in this county will sell their sole for a load of gravels, blacktop or some alcohol. Any punishment these people get is deserved. We are showing our young people that is ok to crook and theive off of honest hardworking taxpayers. Knott county should be dismantled and half given to Perry county and the other half to Floyd. Blacktop anyone?
Posted by: not proud Location: knott county on Dec 1, 2007 at 06:22 AM
according to some of these comments Randy is a great judge.please check the following a great judge lays off 13 workers at christmas time-then hires different people at the sports complex instead of bringing them back.Just so happens these laid of people was not fans of his. 2.threatened to break a childs finger that was riding a school bus and in an argument with his daughter.was convicted. 3.black topped private drives and left public road where they were not for him in dirt and mud holes. 4.put the county so far in debt that it will never pay out. 5.A lot of people hired are retired on big state checks and are now making two salaries.(These are his basketball buddies. 6.switched from democrat to republican just to get appointed.He had always been a democrat. 7.Has a woman working that holds three jobs and gets paid for them.One job her father and mother does in her name but gets paid.(They are on disabled social security.Put your full name down if you proud of your judge.
Posted by: don Location: hindman on Dec 1, 2007 at 03:04 AM
people are you over looking if he did no wrong the feds would not locked him and other ones up. this is why no body wants to live or start a bussness in knott county and i tell you i am ashame to tell people what county i live in.if they did do what the feds said then i hope they all stay in jail for a long time. cause this has to stop and if the judge would put them away for along time people would think the next time about doing it.so let us wait in see what the out come of the trial is
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Pippa Passes on Dec 1, 2007 at 02:08 AM
Thompson has been great for the county! More counties in Kentucky would be lucky to have such a leader that brings attractions and tourism to the area!
Posted by: M.W. Location: Jackson on Dec 1, 2007 at 01:31 AM
There are real criminals out there....this is a disgrace and this is the real waste of taxpayers money. These are good hard working family men. I lived there all my life up until a few years ago, they are all good men and would give you the shirt off there back. It is a shame that helping people and making the county a better place to live for everyone has gotten them in trouble. What kind of world do we live in? A world that jails the very people that help you and lets the drug addicts, theives, child molesters and killers off easy. And these men need to be punished....please.....this is a joke and I for one will be behind these men and praying for them and their families...Hang in there guys God won't let them get away with this...what comes around goes around.
Posted by: Maybe this is where our money for our water went. Location: kite,ky on Dec 1, 2007 at 12:24 AM
If you where such a good County Judge then where is all the water you promised everyone in Knott Co.Every hollow still has no water.Only the ones on the main road.Maybe you know where the money is for it is.Things like this is why the good people of Knott Co do without.
Posted by: ky citizen Location: Floyd County on Dec 1, 2007 at 12:12 AM
I do have to say that it seems Judge Thompson has done good for Knott County so far, even I see that and I don't even live in Knott County. I do work there from time to time though, and I have noticed some good things.
Posted by: JOHN Location: HINDMAN on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:51 PM
The more i read these post i see more how people are mislead. Floks this is not about why,when,how good these officals are. and sence when did (GOD) start holding up for anything wrong? Answer never. These poeple are faceing prison time and you all are on here telling O'L GOODY TWO SHOES,. You had better be hoping they don"t go to prison. A jury could care less how good they have ore what they done for the good of this county. I read alot of what all has been done in this county sence the judge has been in office LOL. If i have had Gov. Felcher throwing all that money for me to be elect shoot even i could have been county judge. And it is not the democrat party that brough this on nor was it that one man that alot of pepole thinks is behind this.Has everone heard of election reform,kentucky state police, FBI no it was"nt mike hall, ask around about what happen in clay co.And in closing about this county being poked fun at.It"s are ready been done.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: knoty county on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:37 PM
I think that Randy has done a good job with the county so far, but he isn't the only county judge that did alot for the county and then get sent to jail. If he didn't do anything wrong then the FBI would not have arrested him and the other officials. I think it is a shame that this county is going through this again. Everyone is blaming politics for all this, but the facts are if evidence shows illegal activities then WHOEVER does this should be punished. It doesn't matter if it is a Republican or Democrat, they must be punished. I just hope that they stop all of the corruption in this county. This type of things will not stop unless the people of this county stand up and say "MY VOTE IS NOT FOR SALE". I agree that we deserve gravel and blacktop, but if everyone notices it only happens at election time. Also, only certain people and certain places get this. I'm lucky because no one has asked to buy my vote. I guess if they did, I would make sure that I go vote against that person.
Posted by: Paul Location: litt carr on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:13 PM
I've known Randy for nearly 20 years and Iknew when he was appointed and then elected judge executive of knott co. he would work hard and finally get knott co moving forward for the first time in decades and he has done just that. And now a FEW and I do mean a FEW are trying to distroy Randy and all that he and his administration has accomplished. And the future...well if the Few have their way it will be abolished. The FEW'S problem with Randy is not that he is a Republican, it's just he beat them. I believe that it wouldn't matter if a person is democrat or Republican, if they beat the man of the FEW the winner would have to deal with the wrath of the FEW. And what sickens me the most,is some of the FEW who rejoice in destroying or trying to destroy the lives of those who are doing so many good things for knott co, will be in church this sunday shouting aman and praise the lord to everything the preacher says. God must be so proud of you.
Posted by: Knott Voter Location: Leburn on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:03 PM
Randy Thompson gets wacked by the Knott Co. Mafia. This mafia family has ties deep in Kentucky state offices. If You defeat them or try to do something for Knott Co. a hit is put on your head. People in this county better stand up and let your voice be heard or we're going to go back to the way it was before Judge Thompson won this office and that was have nothing but a 3 million dollar bridge a multi million dollar school of craft, artasion center and welcome center. Fun to look at but don't help one kid or bring new money to the County. I don't know if Randy bought any votes or not but I do know he couldn't have bought as many as the mafia boughtin all the years they controlled Knott Co. But with their ties to state officials they have never been audited or indicted and never will be. I'm a registered democrat but I'll never vote for anyone who has ties to the mafia again.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 30, 2007 at 10:57 PM
well hes no worse of then other judges other ones i guess just dont get caught.
Posted by: Robin Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 09:57 PM
Randy Thompson is the only Judge who has ever brought anything to this county and it's sad that a few people that are mad because "they" didn't win have done this. "they" need to face it Knott co DOESN'T want you in office. Just gave it up so Knott county and the people can have a better community and place to live!!
Posted by: Furious in Knott Co Location: Knott Co on Nov 30, 2007 at 09:43 PM
This comment is in regard to the comment left by "Paul". I am appalled that you would dare compare a freaking Republican - or any other politician- to JESUS CHRIST!!!! Are you serious?????
Posted by: concerned citizen Location: eastern kentucky on Nov 30, 2007 at 09:43 PM
The unwarranted apprehension of the Knott County Judge Executive and coworkers last evening is a disgrace and an abuse of federal tax dollars. The vote buying charge against this administration is a blatent attempt by undermining political losers with money and unscruptulous methods of revenge by hurting Knott and surrounding counties economically by arresting innocent officials, who were finally beginning to help this community grow for us and our children in the future.
Posted by: I agree with Disgusted Location: Knott Co. on Nov 30, 2007 at 09:39 PM
I couldnt agree more with you Disgusted. I think that if he really wanted to help Knott Co. then he would have given all of us water. Especially when he tells us that he already has the money especially for it. I think running water in all homes is al heck of alot more important and an Elk viewing station. If you do wrong, you should have to pay for it.
Posted by: Life Time Knott Countian Location: Hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 09:06 PM
The county finally has good come to it and people obviously can not handle that fact. Chances are if you're looking for something, you'll probably find it. Hopefully the county will not regress back into what it was before.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 30, 2007 at 08:21 PM
Did anybody remember that he got sued and the county is paying lawyers for his mistakes
Posted by: concerned Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 07:51 PM
Judge Thompson has done more for this county than needed. I apprecaite everything that he has done. Some people you know who needs to give up. Randy is the best person that we could have in office. He has done nothing but good for Knott County. He is all about kids. Kids are the future of Knott County to Judge Thompson. Open your eyes people and smell the roses we need him for this county and you know it. Look how much we have now that he is in. Phillip, Mac, & Ronnie are Very Good people too. So people Believe what you want to. The lies that have been told are not true. So oh well. Judge Thompson, Phillip, Mac, & Ronnie All the good people in Knott County are going to Help you pull through with God by our sides.
Posted by: Sherry Lynn Location: Garrett, KY on Nov 30, 2007 at 07:45 PM
This is outrageous! Knott county was run by a political machine for many years. We finally elected some honest politicians, and the machine pulls strings to get them indicted. Everyone will be afraid to run for that office now - they are intimidating the people of this county by exploiting a connection to the FBI. This has to stop! Won't anybody at the state or federal level protect the people of Knott County? We voted for Donnie Newsome and they framed him. Now they are doing the same thing to Randy Thompson. Don't our elections count for something? Doesn't the will of the people in Knott county matter? What is it going to take for us to have an elected official we actually want to be able to serve his term in peace?!
Posted by: NA Location: Lebrun on Nov 30, 2007 at 07:26 PM
I think it is sad that this has to happen to our county...Yes Randy has done a lot for our county, but look what kind of shape it is in now..He has a done a great job for the stuff with the kids..but how long do you think that will stay up and running....I think that we should have came out of the hole instead of going more in the hole....Also all knows if you do something wrong it is going to come back to you.....I think that is what we get for putting a Republican in office...Also on the layoffs I think that instead of laying off county workers, they should cut there worker down at the sportplex....when you have kids sitting there spinning in chairs doing nothing then they dont need to be there...or when you see them just sitting around or talking on there cell phones doing nothing they have to many workers up there.....
Posted by: Bill on Nov 30, 2007 at 07:21 PM
As I have said many times before. There is no justice, fairness,or freedom in Eastern ky.Just Boss Hoggs,telling everyone to do as they are told, or have thier lives ruined.Our elections are not on the up and up, and never have been.=no wonder we are called stupid, and back wards,by most of the rest of the nation.
Posted by: LIFE LONG DEM. Location: HIPPO, KY. on Nov 30, 2007 at 06:51 PM
LET'S SEE......A GOV. A MORGAN CO. JUDGE EX. AND A KNOTT CO. JUDGE EX. ALL IN A DEMOCRAT STATE AND COUNTY.... ALL INDICTED... SMELL SOMETHING???????????
Posted by: TIRED Location: KNOTT CO. on Nov 30, 2007 at 06:33 PM
REPLY TO ANONYMOUS PIKE CO. : THIS IS VERY TRUE STATEMENT.THE MOUTAIN MAFIA OF KNOTT CO. HAVE RULED AND BOUGHT PEOPLE FOR YEARS IN KNOTT CO. AND NEVER MANAGED TO GET CAUGHT! WHAT ABOUT THAT? NOW THAT THEY ARE NOT IN CONTROL OF PEOPLE IN THE COUNTY THEY ARE TRYING TO BRING DOWN THE BEST THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO KNOTT CO... GO RANDY!!!I BET IF THEY HAD BEEN INVESTIGATED THEY WOULD HAVE THE ONES INDIICTED FOR ALL KINDS OF ILLEGAL VOTE BUYING AND ILLEGAL PRACTICES!!! WE THE PEOPLE OF KNOTT CO. ARE SICK OF THE KNOTT CO. MOUTAIN MAFIA!!!!
Posted by: CONCERNED CITY Location: HINDMAN on Nov 30, 2007 at 06:24 PM
REPLY TO DISGUSTED: WE THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY EXPERIENCE THE COMPLETE OPPOSITE. WHEN THE CITY'S WELL'S WENT DRY RANDY WAS THE ONLY PERSON TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE TO BAT FOR US. HE WAS THE ONE THAT CALLED THE STATE OF EMERGENCY TO GET THE CITIZENS OF HINDMAN THE WATER THEY NEEDED, (THANKS RANDY FOR GETTING US WATER). ISN'T THAT THE MAYOR'S JOB???? OR SHOULD I SAY WHAT MAYOR!!! BACK AGAIN NOT ONLY DOES RANDY HAVE OUR KIDS AT HEART HE ALSO HAS THE COUNTY AND CITY TOO. IF IT WERE NOT FOR RANDY WHO KNOWS HOW LONG IT WOULD HAVE BEEN BEFORE WE GOT HELP!!!! IF EVERYBODY WANTS TO SIT BACK AND LAUGH ABOUT WHAT'S GOING ON WITH THE JUDGE AND HIS OFFICIAL'S THEY NEED TO LOOK INTO WHAT’S GOING ON WITH THE CITY AND THEIR OFFICALS! ONE QUESTION? HOW DOES A CITY COP PATROL AND DRIVE A SCHOOL BUS ALL ON THE SAME TIME CARD??????
Posted by: Teresa Location: Mousie on Nov 30, 2007 at 05:04 PM
Randy Thompson, I tip my hat to you! I have always been a demcrat and I come from a demecrat family but I have been for Randy Thompson from day one. He really cares for the people and children in this county and I think that if he and the others have been doing something wrong like vote buying than big deal I'm sure there are more out there who has done it and you know who you are! I think there is others who shouldn't be pointing fingers in this county. I think all it boils down to is that there are other demecrats out there who do nothing but cause trouble because they have been mad ever since he was voted into office, well get over it!!! Nobody will ever get my vote again that is a promise!
Posted by: Paul Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 04:54 PM
Randy Thompson hasn't done everything perfect, but he has done more for Knott County in one year than previous judges have in the past forty years. This reminds me of another man who tried to help people by healing the sick, making the blind to see and the lame to walk. Look what he got for his troubles. If another election was held tomorrow, I'd vote for Randy Thompson.
Posted by: love my knott judge Location: hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 04:47 PM
to all of knott co. that was involved in the arrest of innocent family men trying to make aliving. You know who you are.I feel sorry for you because you want get away this time! These are good men and god is on their side.so start looking over your shoulders and pray god has mercy on you.
Posted by: Brian on Nov 30, 2007 at 04:13 PM
Anybody who cheats and lies to get ahead in life should have to pay the consequences,democrat OR Republican.
Posted by: Unimportant Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 04:06 PM
It's really sad when one person in a county can cause several individuals (past & present) and their families to have to endure this kind of public humilation. Not to mention that our law enforcement allows and goes along with it. If one would look back over the past few years (since Knott County lost the Senate seat) you could put the puzzle together, it really doesn't take a brain surgeon to figure it out. As for myself a LIFE LONG resident of Knott County, I am very proud of our present administration, it doesn't matter which political side they are on it was the MAN that Knott County, WANTED, VOTED, AND ELECTED. Therefore, the ONE that has sour grapes needs to give it up, and the citizens of Knott County needs to stand up and support our present administration and let the rest of the state know that we are tired of being made fun of.
Posted by: Kaitlyn Location: Perry on Nov 30, 2007 at 03:34 PM
To Make a long story Short. I dont even live in knott and randy is the bestttt. I know him and he is honest as a person gets phillip ronnie and mac the same for themmm.
Posted by: Lucy Location: Jr. on Nov 30, 2007 at 03:28 PM
I think Judge Thompson Phillip and others have done a great job for knott countians in the time Randy has been in office.They Done nothing to deserve jail time.Who agrees with me?EVERYONE. NO he did not buy votes. I really hate it that this world has gotten so bad that they PUT PEOPLE IN JAIL FOR NO REASON.ITS TRUE.
Posted by: Friend Location: Kite on Nov 30, 2007 at 02:29 PM
I think Randy has done nothing wrong, he is a good person! He is here for the county and the children. I think he can make this county instead of breaking this county.Randy we are here for you just hang in there and god will be with you and Phillip,Ronnie,and Mac..
Posted by: Nicole Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 02:04 PM
Judge Thompson is a great person. I agree with Big D, he has done a lot for the kids and everyone in Knott County. Will the old powers ever let our new officials rest? I think not. This is getting to be very childish. You lost, now live with it. Life goes on and this county needs to as well. Antics such as this make citizens ashamed of their county..
Posted by: KNOTT CO GIRL Location: HINDMAN on Nov 30, 2007 at 02:03 PM
I REALLY HATE IT RANDY AND OTHERS GOT PUT IN JAIL. BUT IF THEY HAVE PROOF THAT STUFF WAS DONE ILLEGAL THEN YOU HAVE TO FACE WHATEVER CHOICES YOU MAKE. SO WITH SAYING ALL THAT I THINK RANDY THOMPSON HAS BEEN A REALLY GOOD JUDGE FOR KNOTT CO EVEN IF IS A REPUBLICAN.
Posted by: Disgusted Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:59 PM
If Randy has done so much GOOD for this county.. then how come he wouldnt listen to our local engineer when we told him the water lines were not being laid proeprly and we would run out of water, how come the county workers have to be laid off at Christmas time but we have people in Hindman with "personal assistants" still on the payroll? How come the layoffs didnt go in order of last hired? He got Ronnie Adams to start by asking the ones who were getting paid the most to volunteer before they had to be axed for a while? Why is it that a certain road was blacktopped up to the first Mike Hall sign before the election and the pavment literally stopped there.. I am sorry but all of this is bullcrap to me. Being repulbican shouldnt have anything to do with peoples views of him as an offical... all of this stands for itself.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Pike Co. on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:59 PM
I don't know if you guys realize this or not but there's no such thing as an honest politician. But its a sad thing when people are made to look HORRIBLE when they do so much good for their County.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: knott co on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:56 PM
Democrat nominee, and you know who you are, give it up. We do not want you in office, and you are trying your best to ruin this county and the people in it. I am a proud democrat and I tip my hat to Randy Thompson and for what he has done for my county, which is much more than I can say for the past judges. Randy has our kids in mind, and our kids are the future of this county. Randy here is one democrat that will stand behind you...
Posted by: lucy Location: knott co on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:49 PM
I think Randy has done more for knott co than any other judge we've had...I think someone who lost the election is crying sour grapes cause he did not get elected and is trying anything to get rid of our judge.
Posted by: Very Concerned Location: Hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:34 PM
Randy Thompson is the only Judge who has ever brought anything to this county and has done good. We need to keep him in office. With the other Judges where did the money go, it was not for the county it had to be to themselves, why wasn't there anything done then, why didn't anyone complain. Leave Mr. Thompson alone and let him continue to do a wonderful job. So what if he is a Republican, that is not what makes the person although alot of people feel that way. They need to re-think their way of thinking and stand behind the man who wants the county and the people to have a better community and place to live.
Posted by: That's Ok!!!!! Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 01:31 PM
To all of you people who are sittin back right now thinking this is funny, saying HA HA! Let me tell you something You never get away anything that it don't come back to you!!! Randy is the only person that has been in office that helped Knott Co. Nobody else has done this much for the county in years! All the other LOW LIFE County Judges sat back and done nothing. Don't worry Randy, Phillip, Mac, and Ronnie it will all be OK.... TO all you other LOW LIFE's that try to run a position for someone else EVERY DOG HAS IT'S DAY!!!!!!!!!! I promise you will be exposed for everyone to see who you really are!!!!!! You know who you are!!!!! Then we will see who's sittin back laughing at who!!!!! Randy, Phillip, Ronnie, and Mac GOD is with you!!!!!
Posted by: Cee Cee Location: Hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 12:42 PM
Someone please correct me if I am wrong but is the County not supposed to help out people with gravel and such...no matter what time of the year it is? There are so many children that look up to Randy and the people that work close with him for all he has done for them. Heart wrenching it is going to be for the children that are no doubt going to see this plastered on the news and over hear conversations about this subject....about people that they look up to. Just when things were looking up for Knott County here we go again...I do agree with the humble opinion in the comment posted earlier about the Republican being elected in a Democrat County...hogwash it is.. pure hogwash...
Posted by: Angie on Nov 30, 2007 at 12:13 PM
Randy Thompson is a good man who has done wonders for Knott County. They have a new sports complex which is an awesome facility and they also now have riding trails for ATVs and horses. I have not ever known of another Judge to accomplish so much in such a short period of time. I believe had Randy been a Democrat this wouldn't have happened.
Posted by: Stephanie Location: Hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 12:09 PM
It's not very reassuring that our county is once again being ran from a jail cell!!!!
Posted by: Herman Location: Letcher on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:56 AM
Looks like another witchhunt to me. I bet the old powers couldnt stand to see someone in place that has brought tourism and other things to Knott County. He has done more for Knott County in 2 years than has been done in the last 40 years by the others. But I guess some want to get rid of Randy so they can go back to the old days where the only thing they worried about was is when is the monthly welfare check coming in.
Posted by: Disgusted Location: Knott County on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:49 AM
Boy this was SUCH a big suprise to everyone... NOT!!! What a loser, you want a public office so bad that your going to end up in jail for crimes and tear yourself apart from you and your like 6 kids!!! This is Knott County buddy,. there is no glory in holding an office in a small town, no glory big enough to send urself to jail for thats for sure. Well thats too Judges Execs in a row that landed in jail... anyone wanna run for the seat now??? LOL
Posted by: big D Location: Hindman on Nov 30, 2007 at 11:19 AM
SO a man gets a great facility for the kids, and this is his reward... Granted, I think IF the money was used for private reasons, then it's wrong... but if this is (and in my humble opinion it is) just because he's not a Democrat, and he's in office as a REPUBLICAN in a democrat county, then this is hogwash!
Posted by: easy eee Location: knott on Nov 30, 2007 at 10:41 AM
this (edited) now no more free gravel or paved drive ways thanks people real good job randy i hope u pull through man hang in there say hi to bubba an let him check u oil u might be a quart low easy ee
Posted by: Gary Location: hindam on Nov 30, 2007 at 10:37 AM
WELL WEll I told you so. There is no honest politicians in Knott County. There all crooked.
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