The 12^th case of rabies in Catawba County this year has been reported in Claremont.

Catawba County Animal Services was alerted to a case last week in which several dogs may have come into contact with a raccoon.

The raccoon tested positive for rabies.

The dogs were vaccinated with follow-up booster vaccines recommended.

Authorities arrest a Hickory resident this weekend wanted for the robbery of a Speedway gas station in Hickory October 12^th.

34-year-old Nohsher Chiah was charged with conspiring, and robbery with a dangerous weapon.

Chiah is being held in the Catawba County Detention Facility under a 150-thousand dollar secured bond.

A Morganton man is charged with child sex offenses by McDowell County officers.

19-year-old Jonathan Ray Register of 312 White Street is charged with statutory sex offense with a child under 15 and taking indecent liberties with a child.

Register is accused of having inappropriate sexual contact with an 11-year-old male acquaintance earlier this year.

The victim’s relatives learned of the circumstances and notified authorities.