Thursday, May 28: Fred Pedretti of Genoa was traveling northbound on Fortner Road in the town of Sterling when he stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of Highway 82. As Pedretti began to travel through the intersection, he did not notice a vehicle traveling westbound on Highway 82. The oncoming vehicle was operated by Ralph Ghelf of De Soto. Ghelf was unable to avoid the collision and struck the Pedretti vehicle on the passenger’s side. Pedretti did not report any injuries, and the vehicle had functional damage. Ghelf sustained possible injuries, but he was not transported by EMS to the hospital. The Ghelf vehicle was towed due to disabling damage.
♦ ♦ ♦
Until further notice, in compliance with CDC limitations and to reduce the spread of coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19), Sheriff John Spears is limiting nonessential/nonemergent services, including all meetings scheduled at the sheriff’s office, license plate registrations, jail visitation, etc. To report an incident, or for questions in general, please contact the Vernon County Dispatch Center at (608) 637-2123 or vcso@vernoncounty.org. Civil process/record request inquiries can be forwarded to (608) 638-5710 or vcsorecords@vernoncounty.org. As directed by Sheriff Spears, if you are experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus or flu-like symptoms, please identify this to the dispatcher before a deputy makes contact at your residence. Precautions are being taken in this facility to maintain the health and wellness of staff, inmates, and visitors alike. Thank you for your understanding.
♦ ♦ ♦
Sheriff Spears is reminding citizens to practice good health practices and follow the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control.
To help protect our community, your family and coworkers, please remember to wash your hands frequently for a minimum of 20 seconds, limit the amount of times you touch your face with your hands, cover your mouth when you have a cough, and if you are sick, stay home or seek medical attention. Clean and sanitize your home, work areas, and frequently contacted areas.
For more information, please contact the Vernon County Health Department or your medical provider, and do your part to keep our community healthy to reduce or limit the impact of Covid-19/coronavirus. Stay safe and healthy!