Crime and Law Enforcement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  Republican state lawmakers are divided over a proposal to limit the authority of police oversight boards like the one approved last fall by Nashville voters.

Earlier this month, the Tennessee House passed a measure stripping such boards of subpoena power. During committee debate, Republican Majority Leader William Lamberth insisted giving such boards the ability to compel witness testimony would put police officers at risk.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals will this week hear oral arguments in Tennessee’s lawsuit against federal immigration policy.

Two years ago this month state lawmakers filed suit challenging the fed’s right to resettle refugees in Tennessee without state consent. When the state’s Attorney General declined to file the suit, lawmakers found a faith-based Michigan law firm to represent them.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  Several controversial bills are moving steadily through the Tennessee General Assembly.

On Tuesday Republican Rep. Micah Van Huss presented a bill to the House Health Committee that would ban all abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected.

Amid gasps, jeers and applause Van Huss defended the measure during questioning by Democratic lawmakers, including Memphis Rep. Barbara Cooper. 

Cooper asked "Are you stating that even in the case of rape, (or) incest, that you are banning or prohibiting an abortion?” 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  Nashville is ramping up efforts to fight gun crime in partnership with state and federal agencies.

Mayor David Briley kicked off Project Safe Nashville during a press event late last week.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  You may be surprised to learn that Nashville resident have a legal obligation to provide outdoor pets with extra care during winter cold snaps.

Daytime highs across Middle Tennessee will stay below freezing through Friday morning. Overnight lows will be in the twenties and teens.

Taking special care of your four legged friends on cold days isn’t just the right thing to do, but is also required by city ordinance.

NASVHILLE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  Tax season is officially underway. The IRS began accepting returns this week and e-filing is now available.

Don’t expect the recent government shutdown to save you from Uncle Sam. Your tax return is still due on April 15.

If you need a little help with your return, but can’t afford a paid tax prep service, you do have options. Several mid-state groups are offering free help, including AARP Tennessee. Pam Holcomb is their spokesperson.

NASHVILE, Tenn. (OSBORNE)  --  Nashville has it’s new Police Oversight Board.

Metro Council chose the eleven-member panel Tuesday night in a five-hour, marathon session. Several rounds of voting slowly whittled down the original list of more than 150 applicants.

The Council last week approved two board members nominated by Mayor David Briley. Last night they approved two more panelists nominated by council members. Most of the evening was devoted to selecting the remaining seven board members.