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	<title>Sandhills ExpressBreaking News &#8211; Sandhills Express</title>
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	<description>Sandhills and Central Nebraska News and Radio</description>
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	<title>Breaking News &#8211; Sandhills Express</title>
	<link>https://sandhillsexpress.com</link>
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                	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Pressey Fire updated Friday evening, control rising]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/pressey-fire-updated-friday-evening-control-rising/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2026/04/Fire-update-picture-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Sat, 25 Apr 2026 01:11:23 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[Officials gave an update Friday evening on the progress being made in controlling the Pressey Fire, which began Wednesday afternoon south of Broken Bow and north of Oconto near Pressey Park.
The wildfire has burned an estimated 9,141 acres and is 45 percent contained.
Previously, it was confirmed that one house had been lost in addition to several outbuildings. More than 130 personnel have been working on the fire recently, including helicopters from the Nebraska Air National Guard as well as a hand crew. Governor Jim Pillen has verbally approved an emergency proclamation.
A barn catches fire during the Pressey Fire (courtesy photo)
Oconto Volunteer Fire and Rescue made a statement about the fire and its response.
&#8220;It has been a tense three days. Who would have thought responding to Pressey Park on Wednesday would find us fighting the same fire on Ryno Table and Ash Creek Canyon,&#8221; said the social media post. &#8220;But that is exactly what happened. We are so thankful to so many. All of Custer County showed up in full force as usual. Crews from towns I had never heard of in Nebraska were there! Community members that gave support with food, supplies, drinks, prayers. Farmers with their discs. I cannot begin to name everyone, but just know that all support, big or small, was so appreciated! What a great state and community we live in!&#8221;
While donations to support fire crews are appreciated, additional donations aren't being requested at this time.
Posts from area fire departments can be seen below
Past story links on the Pressey Fire (in order of posting)
- Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto
- Pressey Fire burns 6,000 acres in Custer County, traveling 12 miles
- Pressey Fire acreage grows, one home and several outbuildings lost



]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Officials gave an update Friday evening on the progress being made in controlling the Pressey Fire, which began Wednesday afternoon south of Broken Bow and north of Oconto near Pressey Park.
The wildfire has burned an estimated 9,141 acres and is 45 percent contained.
Previously, it was confirmed that one house had been lost in addition to several outbuildings. More than 130 personnel have been working on the fire recently, including helicopters from the Nebraska Air National Guard as well as a hand crew. Governor Jim Pillen has verbally approved an emergency proclamation.
A barn catches fire during the Pressey Fire (courtesy photo)
Oconto Volunteer Fire and Rescue made a statement about the fire and its response.
&#8220;It has been a tense three days. Who would have thought responding to Pressey Park on Wednesday would find us fighting the same fire on Ryno Table and Ash Creek Canyon,&#8221; said the social media post. &#8220;But that is exactly what happened. We are so thankful to so many. All of Custer County showed up in full force as usual. Crews from towns I had never heard of in Nebraska were there! Community members that gave support with food, supplies, drinks, prayers. Farmers with their discs. I cannot begin to name everyone, but just know that all support, big or small, was so appreciated! What a great state and community we live in!&#8221;
While donations to support fire crews are appreciated, additional donations aren't being requested at this time.
Posts from area fire departments can be seen below
Past story links on the Pressey Fire (in order of posting)
- Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto
- Pressey Fire burns 6,000 acres in Custer County, traveling 12 miles
- Pressey Fire acreage grows, one home and several outbuildings lost



]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Pressey Fire acreage grows, one home and several outbuildings lost]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/pressey-fire-acreage-grows-one-home-and-several-outbuildings-lost/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2026/04/Fire-update-picture-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:31:45 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[According to the Nebraska Forest Service, the Pressey Fire has now burned about 10,000 acres and remains at 0% contained, despite misinformation circulating that it is fully contained.
One home and several outbuildings have been confirmed as lost due to the blaze. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The statement from the Forest Service says that crews are working day and night and that more resources are on the way including two Nebraska Air National Guard Black Hawk helicopters for bucket drops and a National Guard hand crew. The Forest Service also has staff on scene working with local responders to manage response efforts.
UPDATE, 8:30 PM Thursday: Nebraska Emergency Management Agency submitted an estimate of 8,953 acres burned with 0 percent containment. More than 130 personnel are working on the fire and Governor Jim Pillen has verbally approved an emergency proclamation.
All other details given with the Nebraska Forestry update remain the same at this time.
Pictures and videos below are from both Wednesday and Thursday
Past story links on the Pressey Fire (in order of posting)
- Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto
- Pressey Fire burns 6,000 acres in Custer County, traveling 12 miles

 
Custer Public Power District is actively replacing power poles that were damaged by the fire
 
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[According to the Nebraska Forest Service, the Pressey Fire has now burned about 10,000 acres and remains at 0% contained, despite misinformation circulating that it is fully contained.
One home and several outbuildings have been confirmed as lost due to the blaze. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The statement from the Forest Service says that crews are working day and night and that more resources are on the way including two Nebraska Air National Guard Black Hawk helicopters for bucket drops and a National Guard hand crew. The Forest Service also has staff on scene working with local responders to manage response efforts.
UPDATE, 8:30 PM Thursday: Nebraska Emergency Management Agency submitted an estimate of 8,953 acres burned with 0 percent containment. More than 130 personnel are working on the fire and Governor Jim Pillen has verbally approved an emergency proclamation.
All other details given with the Nebraska Forestry update remain the same at this time.
Pictures and videos below are from both Wednesday and Thursday
Past story links on the Pressey Fire (in order of posting)
- Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto
- Pressey Fire burns 6,000 acres in Custer County, traveling 12 miles

 
Custer Public Power District is actively replacing power poles that were damaged by the fire
 
]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Several departments sent to grass fire north of Oconto]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/several-departments-sent-to-grass-fire-north-of-oconto/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2026/04/Pressey-fire-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:46:37 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[OCONTO, Neb.- Near the beginning of the 2 PM hour, first responders were dispatched to reports of a grass fire north of the community of Oconto on West Pressey Road near Pressey Park.
Photo and video content at the end of story
Mutual aid was quickly called for as Broken Bow, Arnold, Anselmo, Merna, Ansley, Eddyville, and Mason City fire departments joined Oconto and Callaway in the fight not long after the initial call. Before 2:30 PM, special attention for 'structure protection' was relayed to responders.
Smoke fills the air from the Pressey fire (photo taken in 3PM hour from KCNI/KBBN studios in Broken Bow looking south)
As 3 PM approached, it was stated that the fire had jumped a river in the area as it was pushed forward by winds. The fire had already traveled several miles by 3 PM.
Later in the 3 PM hour, Cozad and Lexington were also requested to the site of the blaze. Agricultural aircraft was also seen flying over Broken Bow in the direction of the source of visible smoke ahead of the 4 PM hour.
At 4:20 PM Wednesday, information made available on WildCAD (a computer-aided dispatch system used by wildland fire agencies for automated updates on wildfire incidents) estimated the fire at 1,000 acres in size. The fire was also named the Pressey Fire.
Ahead of the 5 PM hour, a call went out for any additional Custer County fire departments to provide mutual aid who had not already.
As the fight against the fire entered the 5 PM hour, residents who called the KCNI/KBBN studios indicated that they were trying to leave their homes in the Ryno Road area and other areas surrounding the fire scene, but were not able to do so in a timely manner due to people in the area to watch the fire and the scene. One caller also believed they witnessed a truck unable to effectively reach a source of water due to people in the way. Those in the area or traveling to the area to watch need to stay away from the area so that crews can respond effectively.
Photo taken from the KCNI/KBBN studios near Broken Bow, looking south ahead of the 6 PM hour Wednesday (click to enlarge)
Approaching 5:30 PM, mutual aid was requested from Litchfield and Arcadia in Sherman County. Several locations were stated to be set up to control traffic to only local traffic along Ryno Road S/SW of Broken Bow.
Nearing 6 PM Wednesday, road graders with fire department vehicles alongside them were observed leaving the highway department location west of Broken Bow on Ryno Road toward the area of the fire.
Just ahead of 7 PM, a call to the KCNI/KBBN studios indicated that the Oconto Community Hall and Senior Center were being opened for those who were asked to leave their homes or who made the decision to leave themselves.
By 8 PM Wednesday evening, the smoke filling the air from the Pressey Fire had turned to a much lighter shade of gray compared to the dark gray, almost black smoke seen just a couple hours prior (see comparison photo below). A location near the beginning point of the fire had attention turned toward it after re-ignition.
Airplanes assisting in fighting the fire were grounded as the sun set Wednesday night. Updates slowed significantly by 9 PM heading into the evening hours as crews continue to fight the fire.
Other crews identified as being at the fire or scheduled for shifts soon include members of the Mid NE Task Force (Albion, Battle Creek, Monroe, Newman Grove, St. Edward), Sutton, Sumner, Brady, Loup City, and Ashton. Many departments indicated they are being stretched in several directions as fires are located in several spots across the state. The importance of leaving an effective amount of equipment and personnel to cover each station's own coverage area is also taken into consideration when providing mutual aid.
An update was given by Custer County Emergency Management on Thursday morning indicating the fire had burned 6,000 acres and traveled about 12 miles distance.
The latest updates can be found in newer stories under LOCAL NEWS on SandhillsExpress.com
-
The entire KCNI/KBBN listening area and much beyond is in an active Red Flag Warning, indicating that critical fire weather conditions are present due to strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures. At the KCNI/KBBN studios Wednesday, winds were consistently in the 30 to 40 MPH range (gusting higher at times), humidity crawled lower into the afternoon hours of the day under 30%, and temperatures rose into the 80s.
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge


]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[OCONTO, Neb.- Near the beginning of the 2 PM hour, first responders were dispatched to reports of a grass fire north of the community of Oconto on West Pressey Road near Pressey Park.
Photo and video content at the end of story
Mutual aid was quickly called for as Broken Bow, Arnold, Anselmo, Merna, Ansley, Eddyville, and Mason City fire departments joined Oconto and Callaway in the fight not long after the initial call. Before 2:30 PM, special attention for 'structure protection' was relayed to responders.
Smoke fills the air from the Pressey fire (photo taken in 3PM hour from KCNI/KBBN studios in Broken Bow looking south)
As 3 PM approached, it was stated that the fire had jumped a river in the area as it was pushed forward by winds. The fire had already traveled several miles by 3 PM.
Later in the 3 PM hour, Cozad and Lexington were also requested to the site of the blaze. Agricultural aircraft was also seen flying over Broken Bow in the direction of the source of visible smoke ahead of the 4 PM hour.
At 4:20 PM Wednesday, information made available on WildCAD (a computer-aided dispatch system used by wildland fire agencies for automated updates on wildfire incidents) estimated the fire at 1,000 acres in size. The fire was also named the Pressey Fire.
Ahead of the 5 PM hour, a call went out for any additional Custer County fire departments to provide mutual aid who had not already.
As the fight against the fire entered the 5 PM hour, residents who called the KCNI/KBBN studios indicated that they were trying to leave their homes in the Ryno Road area and other areas surrounding the fire scene, but were not able to do so in a timely manner due to people in the area to watch the fire and the scene. One caller also believed they witnessed a truck unable to effectively reach a source of water due to people in the way. Those in the area or traveling to the area to watch need to stay away from the area so that crews can respond effectively.
Photo taken from the KCNI/KBBN studios near Broken Bow, looking south ahead of the 6 PM hour Wednesday (click to enlarge)
Approaching 5:30 PM, mutual aid was requested from Litchfield and Arcadia in Sherman County. Several locations were stated to be set up to control traffic to only local traffic along Ryno Road S/SW of Broken Bow.
Nearing 6 PM Wednesday, road graders with fire department vehicles alongside them were observed leaving the highway department location west of Broken Bow on Ryno Road toward the area of the fire.
Just ahead of 7 PM, a call to the KCNI/KBBN studios indicated that the Oconto Community Hall and Senior Center were being opened for those who were asked to leave their homes or who made the decision to leave themselves.
By 8 PM Wednesday evening, the smoke filling the air from the Pressey Fire had turned to a much lighter shade of gray compared to the dark gray, almost black smoke seen just a couple hours prior (see comparison photo below). A location near the beginning point of the fire had attention turned toward it after re-ignition.
Airplanes assisting in fighting the fire were grounded as the sun set Wednesday night. Updates slowed significantly by 9 PM heading into the evening hours as crews continue to fight the fire.
Other crews identified as being at the fire or scheduled for shifts soon include members of the Mid NE Task Force (Albion, Battle Creek, Monroe, Newman Grove, St. Edward), Sutton, Sumner, Brady, Loup City, and Ashton. Many departments indicated they are being stretched in several directions as fires are located in several spots across the state. The importance of leaving an effective amount of equipment and personnel to cover each station's own coverage area is also taken into consideration when providing mutual aid.
An update was given by Custer County Emergency Management on Thursday morning indicating the fire had burned 6,000 acres and traveled about 12 miles distance.
The latest updates can be found in newer stories under LOCAL NEWS on SandhillsExpress.com
-
The entire KCNI/KBBN listening area and much beyond is in an active Red Flag Warning, indicating that critical fire weather conditions are present due to strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures. At the KCNI/KBBN studios Wednesday, winds were consistently in the 30 to 40 MPH range (gusting higher at times), humidity crawled lower into the afternoon hours of the day under 30%, and temperatures rose into the 80s.
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge


]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Fire sparks west of Loup City, draws response from several area departments]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/fire-sparks-west-of-loup-city-draws-response-from-several-area-departments/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2026/03/Loup-City-fire-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 21:33:52 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[LOUP CITY, Neb.- A grass fire is said to have sparked five miles to the west of the community of Loup City and two miles south of Highway 92 just ahead of the 4 PM hour on Wednesday (March 18).
Loup City fire requested mutual aid from several area departments including Hazard, Litchfield, Arcadia, Mason City, Ansley, Arcadia, and Ravenna.
According to the Sherman County Sheriff, a pasture and cornfield are on fire and assistance was received from farmers with discs and local businesses with water tankers as well.
As is the case with any fire scene, responders ask that the public do their best to avoid the area so that crews can focus on fighting the fire. Pull over for first responders traveling to the scene, regardless of what side of the road they are on from yourself.
UPDATE, Thursday morning: The fire was taken care of thanks to quick response and aggressive fighting by both firefighters and volunteers. (See the late-night post from Loup City Fire Department below). Loup City Fire Department thanked Trotters and Top Line Ag as well as local farmers from West Fork Ranch and Jim Obermiller farms, in addition to another tractor and disc whose driver and owner couldn't be identified.


]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[LOUP CITY, Neb.- A grass fire is said to have sparked five miles to the west of the community of Loup City and two miles south of Highway 92 just ahead of the 4 PM hour on Wednesday (March 18).
Loup City fire requested mutual aid from several area departments including Hazard, Litchfield, Arcadia, Mason City, Ansley, Arcadia, and Ravenna.
According to the Sherman County Sheriff, a pasture and cornfield are on fire and assistance was received from farmers with discs and local businesses with water tankers as well.
As is the case with any fire scene, responders ask that the public do their best to avoid the area so that crews can focus on fighting the fire. Pull over for first responders traveling to the scene, regardless of what side of the road they are on from yourself.
UPDATE, Thursday morning: The fire was taken care of thanks to quick response and aggressive fighting by both firefighters and volunteers. (See the late-night post from Loup City Fire Department below). Loup City Fire Department thanked Trotters and Top Line Ag as well as local farmers from West Fork Ranch and Jim Obermiller farms, in addition to another tractor and disc whose driver and owner couldn't be identified.


]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[UPDATED - Truck vs Train accident west of Berwyn sees quick response Thursday]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/truck-vs-train-accident-west-of-berwyn-sees-quick-response-thursday/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/08/Truck-1-300x169.png</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:59:58 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[BERWYN, Neb. - First responders were called to the scene of a truck and train collision near the intersection of Road 445 and Highway 2 west of Berwyn just ahead of 2 PM Thursday afternoon (October 2). A semi truck owned by Adams Land and Cattle Co., pulling a side dump trailer, was impacted by the train on the trailer.
An eastbound train struck the side dump trailer as the semi was crossing the railroad tracks. The trailer was pushed off the crossing and into the ditch, spilling its contents, silage, onto the roadway.
The driver, a 53-year-old Ansley male, was the lone occupant of the semi. He was transported to the Jennie Melham Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Traffic on Highway 2 was slowed for less than an hour before the truck was able to be driven away from the train tracks on its own. No train cars appeared to have left the tracks.
Responders were heading back to their stations before 3 PM and the spill from the trailer was being cleaned up with traffic flowing at the time as well.
The Sheriff's Office was assisted by Broken Bow Fire and Rescue, the Nebraska Department of Roads, Adams Land and Cattle, Hunters Towing, and BNSF.
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge
&nbsp;
Click to Enlarge
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[BERWYN, Neb. - First responders were called to the scene of a truck and train collision near the intersection of Road 445 and Highway 2 west of Berwyn just ahead of 2 PM Thursday afternoon (October 2). A semi truck owned by Adams Land and Cattle Co., pulling a side dump trailer, was impacted by the train on the trailer.
An eastbound train struck the side dump trailer as the semi was crossing the railroad tracks. The trailer was pushed off the crossing and into the ditch, spilling its contents, silage, onto the roadway.
The driver, a 53-year-old Ansley male, was the lone occupant of the semi. He was transported to the Jennie Melham Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Traffic on Highway 2 was slowed for less than an hour before the truck was able to be driven away from the train tracks on its own. No train cars appeared to have left the tracks.
Responders were heading back to their stations before 3 PM and the spill from the trailer was being cleaned up with traffic flowing at the time as well.
The Sheriff's Office was assisted by Broken Bow Fire and Rescue, the Nebraska Department of Roads, Adams Land and Cattle, Hunters Towing, and BNSF.
Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge
&nbsp;
Click to Enlarge
]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Callaway man sentenced to prison for sexual assault charges]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/callaway-man-sentenced-to-prison-for-sexual-assault-charges/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/08/Timothy-Rosentrater-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:31:00 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[CUSTER COUNTY, Neb.- Timothy Rosentrater of Callaway was sentenced in Custer County District court on Thursday after entering a plea of guilty in May to several charges of sexual assault that occurred over a period eclipsing more than 20 years.
The 64 year old originally faced a single charge after being arrested in February of 2024 when a woman accused him of assaulting her during a seizure episode. As the case progressed, more women came forward to accuse Rosentrater of sexual assault instances that occurred when they were as young as 12 years old.
In May of 2024, Rosentrater was charged with 14 counts of sexual assault. An agreement with the state for a guilty or no contest plea in May dropped nine of the charges against Rosentrater. The recommendation made by the state was a minimum of 60 years of cumulative incarceration for the remaining charges, which Rosentrater pled guilty to.
Charges I and II: Sexual assault of a child (Class IIIA felonies)
Charges II and III: First degree sexual assault (Class II felonies)
Charge IV: Criminal attempt (Class IIA felony)
Several victim impact statements were read to the courtroom, either by victims in the case or on their behalf ahead of arguments from the state and defendant.
Deputy County Attorney Kayla Clark stated that the state doesn't believe that Rosentrater takes accountability or understands the gravity of his actions despite making statements to make it sound like it. She added that statements he made to law enforcement were concerning, including 'So you're believing her over me?' when being arrested.
Clark closed by saying the state believes that Rosentrater is an 'incredible danger to society', pointing to there being a felony charge for each victim that came forward but that they had detailed multiple times they had been assaulted. She re-stated the state's recommendation of 60 years incarceration.
Attorney for the defense, Matt Furrow, spoke toward an extended period of probation or the minimum amount of incarceration (5-10 years) if probation was ruled inappropriate by the court. Furrow argued that Rosentrater had taken accountability for his actions, pointing mainly to working with law enforcement and entering a guilty plea. He also added that Rosentrater resisted when it was suggested that the victims be deposed, saying he 'didn't want to put them through that.'
Furrow closed by pointing to Rosentrater having no previous criminal charges or convictions and that pre-sentence investigations and evaluations showed that he was a low risk to recidivate. He stated once more an ask for probation or the minimum amount of incarceration.
Rosentrater gave a short statement to those in the courtroom, saying that he takes 100% responsibility for his actions, that he has nobody to blame but himself, and that his hope is for healing and closure for those that he hurt.
Judge Karin Noakes preceded sentencing with final statements of her own. She said his actions were appalling due to the victims looking for friendship with his daughter and being made to feel safe and secure, only for him to take advantage of their vulnerabilities. She added that she sees the crimes as pre-meditated and not impulsive because of Rosentrater's identification of targets, building of relationships, and grooming.
Noakes spoke to the impact statements pointing to three types of lasting hurt from the victims: of trust broken, of the events of the assaults themselves, and the guilt of not coming forward earlier.
She added that the victims were justified in being concerned about whether they would be believed or not due to the image Rosentrater had built for himself in the community, stating, &#8220;They were concerned about friendships, their family, and even your family incredibly.&#8221; Noakes said she is amazed by the concern young children have for others even after being the victim of a horrible crime and that 'people like you (Rosentrater)' know that.
Judge Noakes sentenced Rosentrater to 4 to 5 years incarceration for each sexual assault of a child charge and 10 to 15 years for the first degree sexual assault and criminal attempt charges. The charges were ordered to be served consecutively and Rosentrater was given credit for 588 days of incarceration served. He will serve a minimum of 19 years before becoming eligible for parole, pursuant to Nebraska's 'Good Time Law'.
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[CUSTER COUNTY, Neb.- Timothy Rosentrater of Callaway was sentenced in Custer County District court on Thursday after entering a plea of guilty in May to several charges of sexual assault that occurred over a period eclipsing more than 20 years.
The 64 year old originally faced a single charge after being arrested in February of 2024 when a woman accused him of assaulting her during a seizure episode. As the case progressed, more women came forward to accuse Rosentrater of sexual assault instances that occurred when they were as young as 12 years old.
In May of 2024, Rosentrater was charged with 14 counts of sexual assault. An agreement with the state for a guilty or no contest plea in May dropped nine of the charges against Rosentrater. The recommendation made by the state was a minimum of 60 years of cumulative incarceration for the remaining charges, which Rosentrater pled guilty to.
Charges I and II: Sexual assault of a child (Class IIIA felonies)
Charges II and III: First degree sexual assault (Class II felonies)
Charge IV: Criminal attempt (Class IIA felony)
Several victim impact statements were read to the courtroom, either by victims in the case or on their behalf ahead of arguments from the state and defendant.
Deputy County Attorney Kayla Clark stated that the state doesn't believe that Rosentrater takes accountability or understands the gravity of his actions despite making statements to make it sound like it. She added that statements he made to law enforcement were concerning, including 'So you're believing her over me?' when being arrested.
Clark closed by saying the state believes that Rosentrater is an 'incredible danger to society', pointing to there being a felony charge for each victim that came forward but that they had detailed multiple times they had been assaulted. She re-stated the state's recommendation of 60 years incarceration.
Attorney for the defense, Matt Furrow, spoke toward an extended period of probation or the minimum amount of incarceration (5-10 years) if probation was ruled inappropriate by the court. Furrow argued that Rosentrater had taken accountability for his actions, pointing mainly to working with law enforcement and entering a guilty plea. He also added that Rosentrater resisted when it was suggested that the victims be deposed, saying he 'didn't want to put them through that.'
Furrow closed by pointing to Rosentrater having no previous criminal charges or convictions and that pre-sentence investigations and evaluations showed that he was a low risk to recidivate. He stated once more an ask for probation or the minimum amount of incarceration.
Rosentrater gave a short statement to those in the courtroom, saying that he takes 100% responsibility for his actions, that he has nobody to blame but himself, and that his hope is for healing and closure for those that he hurt.
Judge Karin Noakes preceded sentencing with final statements of her own. She said his actions were appalling due to the victims looking for friendship with his daughter and being made to feel safe and secure, only for him to take advantage of their vulnerabilities. She added that she sees the crimes as pre-meditated and not impulsive because of Rosentrater's identification of targets, building of relationships, and grooming.
Noakes spoke to the impact statements pointing to three types of lasting hurt from the victims: of trust broken, of the events of the assaults themselves, and the guilt of not coming forward earlier.
She added that the victims were justified in being concerned about whether they would be believed or not due to the image Rosentrater had built for himself in the community, stating, &#8220;They were concerned about friendships, their family, and even your family incredibly.&#8221; Noakes said she is amazed by the concern young children have for others even after being the victim of a horrible crime and that 'people like you (Rosentrater)' know that.
Judge Noakes sentenced Rosentrater to 4 to 5 years incarceration for each sexual assault of a child charge and 10 to 15 years for the first degree sexual assault and criminal attempt charges. The charges were ordered to be served consecutively and Rosentrater was given credit for 588 days of incarceration served. He will serve a minimum of 19 years before becoming eligible for parole, pursuant to Nebraska's 'Good Time Law'.
]]></content:encoded>
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                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Box Butte County Homicide Victim Identified]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/state-news/box-butte-county-homicide-victim-identified/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/08/Nebraska-State-Patrol-2-1-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:02:56 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[State News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[ALLIANCE, Neb.- Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol believe that the deceased person found last week in rural Box Butte County is Ebram Sifuentes, 32. An autopsy was conducted on Monday, but additional testing is being done to provide 100% confirmation.
Sifuentes had been reported missing and was the subject of a missing person investigation. He had reportedly last been seen on August 27. Investigators believe Sifuentes was the victim of a homicide.
Last week, NSP arrested Tamara Bingham, 26, of Alliance, for first degree murder. Investigators also arrested Matthew Landreth, 36, of Alliance, as an accessory to a felony.
This is an active investigation and remains ongoing.
NSP has been assisted by the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office, Alliance Police Department, Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, WING Task Force, the Sheridan and Box Butte County Attorneys, and the Nebraska Attorney General's Office.
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ALLIANCE, Neb.- Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol believe that the deceased person found last week in rural Box Butte County is Ebram Sifuentes, 32. An autopsy was conducted on Monday, but additional testing is being done to provide 100% confirmation.
Sifuentes had been reported missing and was the subject of a missing person investigation. He had reportedly last been seen on August 27. Investigators believe Sifuentes was the victim of a homicide.
Last week, NSP arrested Tamara Bingham, 26, of Alliance, for first degree murder. Investigators also arrested Matthew Landreth, 36, of Alliance, as an accessory to a felony.
This is an active investigation and remains ongoing.
NSP has been assisted by the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office, Alliance Police Department, Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, WING Task Force, the Sheridan and Box Butte County Attorneys, and the Nebraska Attorney General's Office.
]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Trailer detaches, takes dive into creek on Highway 2 near Broken Bow]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/trailer-detaches-takes-dive-into-creek-on-highway-2-near-broken-bow/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/08/Truck-2-300x225.png</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:16:13 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[BROKEN BOW- A semi truck trailer detached from the truck pulling it and plunged into the creek below a Highway 2 bridge outside of Broken Bow early Tuesday evening (August 26).
The driver of the truck was able to drive away from the area without injury. He told KCNI/KBBN that he was pulling two trailers in tandem when he felt what he described as &#8220;a jolt&#8221; when the back trailer detached and left the highway to the East side, plunging into the creek that runs through the third hole at the Broken Bow Golf Club.
A pilot car was still in use on the stretch of construction area into the 6 PM hour when KCNI/KBBN left the scene. Construction crews continued to work on the highway project while responders tended to the accident scene.
 

]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[BROKEN BOW- A semi truck trailer detached from the truck pulling it and plunged into the creek below a Highway 2 bridge outside of Broken Bow early Tuesday evening (August 26).
The driver of the truck was able to drive away from the area without injury. He told KCNI/KBBN that he was pulling two trailers in tandem when he felt what he described as &#8220;a jolt&#8221; when the back trailer detached and left the highway to the East side, plunging into the creek that runs through the third hole at the Broken Bow Golf Club.
A pilot car was still in use on the stretch of construction area into the 6 PM hour when KCNI/KBBN left the scene. Construction crews continued to work on the highway project while responders tended to the accident scene.
 

]]></content:encoded>
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                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Sargent voters deny pool bond a third time]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/sargent-voters-deny-pool-bond-a-third-time/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/07/Pool-denied-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:02:26 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[SARGENT, Neb. - Results of the special bond election for a pool in Sargent have been released by Custer County Clerk Connie Gracey. Voters voting against the pool have outnumbered the amount voting for it for a third time.
Shall the City of Sargent, Nebraska (the &#8220;City&#8221;) issue its bonds in a principal amount not to exceed Four Million Dollars ($4,000,000) for the purpose of financing the costs of constructing and equipping a new municipal swimming pool and related facilities within the City
Voting FOR said tax and bonds: 92
Voting AGAINST said tax and bonds: 113
Previous elections were held in 2023 (when 70 residents voted for a pool and 129 voted against) and 2024 (when 125 voted for and 128 voted against).
This most recent vote on a pool returning to Sargent brought 59% voter return on the mailed ballot, of which Gracey said over 350 were sent out.
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[SARGENT, Neb. - Results of the special bond election for a pool in Sargent have been released by Custer County Clerk Connie Gracey. Voters voting against the pool have outnumbered the amount voting for it for a third time.
Shall the City of Sargent, Nebraska (the &#8220;City&#8221;) issue its bonds in a principal amount not to exceed Four Million Dollars ($4,000,000) for the purpose of financing the costs of constructing and equipping a new municipal swimming pool and related facilities within the City
Voting FOR said tax and bonds: 92
Voting AGAINST said tax and bonds: 113
Previous elections were held in 2023 (when 70 residents voted for a pool and 129 voted against) and 2024 (when 125 voted for and 128 voted against).
This most recent vote on a pool returning to Sargent brought 59% voter return on the mailed ballot, of which Gracey said over 350 were sent out.
]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
                    	<news>
                
                    <title><![CDATA[Broken Bow Public Schools target of phishing email scam, $1.8 million in funds stolen]]></title>
                                                            <link>https://sandhillsexpress.com/local-news/broken-bow-public-schools-target-of-phishing-email-scam-1-8-million-in-funds-stolen/?radio=1</link>
                                        <image>https://media-news-affiliates.s3.amazonaws.com/wp/uploads/2025/07/Bow-schools-scam-300x169.jpg</image>
                                        <caption> </caption>
                                                            <pubDate>Mon, 14 Jul 2025 16:24:02 +0000</pubDate>
                    <dc:creator><![CDATA[Christen Shirley]]></dc:creator>
                    		<category><![CDATA[Breaking News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Local News]]></category>

                                                    <description><![CDATA[BROKEN BOW, Neb. - Broken Bow Public Schools stated Monday (July 14) that the school was the target of cybersecurity fraud, which resulted in a $1.8 million payment being diverted to a fraudulent account.
The incident occurred early this spring when the school received a phishing email containing false Automated Clearing House (ACH) instructions that appeared to come from a trusted vendor, resulting in the payment intended for a construction contractor working on the school's bond construction project to be sent to scammers.
Broken Bow Public Schools Superintendent Darren Tobey told KCNI/KBBN that a full investigation was immediately launched after suspicion was raised, which included the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Nebraska State Patrol, and the United States Secret Service.
With the assistance of those authorities, Tobey said that nearly $700,000 of the money has been recovered to date. He added that the school is continuing to work with the authorities in addition to their attorneys and insurance to attempt to recover the approximately $1.1 million in remaining funds.
A release from the school indicated the following regarding questions about impact and assurance:
- The construction project will continue as planned without interruption
- There will be no tax increases to cover the financial shortfall
- The district remains in a strong financial position due to careful planning and conservative budgeting
- New protocols and safeguards were immediately implemented in the district office regarding wire/ACH transfers and financial transactions to prevent a similar event
The release continued by saying that the school &#8220;takes full responsibility for the fact that the safeguards were not in place, as well as full responsibility for the unfortunate circumstance,&#8221; adding that a public statement was not made earlier in order to allow law enforcement officials the time to conduct an investigation.
The full release from the school regarding the incident can be read below:
Click to enlarge
]]></description>
                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[BROKEN BOW, Neb. - Broken Bow Public Schools stated Monday (July 14) that the school was the target of cybersecurity fraud, which resulted in a $1.8 million payment being diverted to a fraudulent account.
The incident occurred early this spring when the school received a phishing email containing false Automated Clearing House (ACH) instructions that appeared to come from a trusted vendor, resulting in the payment intended for a construction contractor working on the school's bond construction project to be sent to scammers.
Broken Bow Public Schools Superintendent Darren Tobey told KCNI/KBBN that a full investigation was immediately launched after suspicion was raised, which included the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Nebraska State Patrol, and the United States Secret Service.
With the assistance of those authorities, Tobey said that nearly $700,000 of the money has been recovered to date. He added that the school is continuing to work with the authorities in addition to their attorneys and insurance to attempt to recover the approximately $1.1 million in remaining funds.
A release from the school indicated the following regarding questions about impact and assurance:
- The construction project will continue as planned without interruption
- There will be no tax increases to cover the financial shortfall
- The district remains in a strong financial position due to careful planning and conservative budgeting
- New protocols and safeguards were immediately implemented in the district office regarding wire/ACH transfers and financial transactions to prevent a similar event
The release continued by saying that the school &#8220;takes full responsibility for the fact that the safeguards were not in place, as well as full responsibility for the unfortunate circumstance,&#8221; adding that a public statement was not made earlier in order to allow law enforcement officials the time to conduct an investigation.
The full release from the school regarding the incident can be read below:
Click to enlarge
]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                            	</news>
                
        

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