Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press…
MILWAUKEE (AP) — The federal government is starting a new program to help monitor and possibly control the spread of a virus that has killed millions of pigs since showing up in the U.S. last year. The porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, believed to be from China, causes severe diarrhea in newborn piglets, who die from dehydration. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Friday it is stepping up efforts by requiring farmers to report infections.
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A prosecutor pursuing several cases against felons charged with voting illegally says an Iowa Supreme Court ruling shouldn’t impact them. Assistant Black Hawk County Attorney Linda Fangman said Thursday the prosecutions will “proceed as is,” despite Tuesday’s ruling suggesting that not all felons lose their voting rights. She’s handling felony election misconduct cases against six offenders accused of voting in the 2012 election even though they lost their rights. A seventh may plead guilty Monday.
SHELDON, Iowa (AP) — A northwest Iowa bar and bowling alley owner and one of her employees have been accused of setting a fire to collect insurance money. Authorities say 36-year-old Kristina Manasil owned the Budd-Z’s Sports Bar and Grill and its bowling alley in Sheldon. Manasil and 36-year-old Adam Sickles were arrested Wednesday.
PROLE, Iowa (AP) — Authorities say an escaped prisoner captured in central Iowa was found under a house porch. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office says 37-year-old Kenny Bevard was found Friday hiding under a residence in Prole, just south of Des Moines.