Alabama's six Republicans in the U.S. House say they will support legislation that would increase screening for Syrian and Iraqi refugees trying to enter the United States. Earlier this week, Governor Robert Bentley ignited the controversy when he said Alabama will not accept Syrian refugees. President Obama is promising to veto the Refugee bill if it reaches his desk.
Great American Smokeout
Thursday is the annual "Great American Smokeout" and Alabama public health officials say there are no excuses to put off quitting tobacco. Smokers who want to kick the habit can turn to a free tobacco quitline for help, the services include coaching, a personalized quit plan and eight weeks of free nicotine patches. The quitline number is 1-800-784-8669. Phone lines are open from 6 a.m. to midnight seven days a week. According to the American Cancer Society, in Alabama 21.5 percent of adults are smokers, the national rate is about 18 percent.
Teen Murder Charge
Birmingham Police say a 15-year-old boy is charged in three homicides and is the prime suspect in a fourth murder. Due to his age, the juvenile's name has been withheld. Birmingham spokesman, Lt. Sean Edwards said the teen is accused of shooting a couple to death in a Birmingham city park on October 23rd. A judge will decide whether the 15-year-old will be charged as an adult.
Sex Abuse Charge
A former Lee County Deputy Sheriff has been arrested on a charge involving sexual abuse of a child. 38-year-old Kevin Taylor of Phenix City was arrested Wednesday by the State Bureau of Investigation. He is charged with one count of sexual abuse of a child under 12. Taylor's arrest follows an investigation that was launched after Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones received a complain about Taylor. Authorities said the victim's mother contacted deputies November 9th. Taylor was booked into the Lee County Detention center with bond set at $100,000.