OWENS FUNERAL
A funeral service was held today for long-time Norwich NAACP President Jacqueline Owens. The 86-year old Lebanon resident led the Norwich chapter for 30 years, retiring last December. Known affectionately by family and friends as “Mother Owens”, Jackie was remembered for, among other things, teaching the history of the civil rights movement in local schools, her leadership roles in the church, and her efforts at establishing such Norwich events as the Juneteenth Celebration, and the annual Martin Luther King observances.
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
The Norwich branch of the NAACP is hosting its annual Juneteenth celebration tomorrow at Howard T. Brown Park. The free event features live music, food vendors, and a variety of family activities. The Juneteenth celebration is held every year to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
LOCAL COP ARRESTED
A Groton city police corporal has been placed on administrative leave after being arrested following a domestic disturbance at a North Stonington home. 31-year-old Katie Elizabeth Ellis of Gales Ferry was brought into custody just after noontime on Wednesday. She’s been charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief, breach of peace and third-degree assault. The victim was identified as a 41-year-old, but no other information about the incident has been released. Ellis’ gun and badge have been confiscated while police investigate. She’s due in court on Tuesday.
WRONG-WAY DRIVER
A Providence woman is accused of driving the wrong way on Interstate 95 while drunk. Police say they received several calls from people who spotted 40-year-old Natasha Bedgood driving in the wrong direction on 95 southbound near exit 1 in Hopkinton around 2:00 this morning. According to officers, Bedgood pulled over near exit 2 in Alton after colliding with a jersey barrier. Bedgood is facing several charges, including driving under the influence and refusal to submit to a chemical test.
