A 22-year-old Lincolnton man will spend the next 8 years in prison after pleading guilty on Thursday, to traffic-related offenses that led to the death of a Caldwell County man. Steffan Aleksander Robinson pleaded guilty to felony death by vehicle, driving while impaired, driving left of center and felony serious injury by vehicle in connection with the August 3, 2015, death of 29-year-old Tyler Finley Sims of Granite Falls. Robinson also pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine precursors from a separate charge. The Honorable Gregory R. Hayes, Superior Court Judge from Catawba County, sentenced Robinson to serve 8 to 12 years. In addition, Robinson will be required to pay $7,150 in restitution to the Sims family. Amanda Efird and Richard Helderman investigated the case for the Hickory Police Department. Melanie Earles handled prosecution for the 25th District Attorney's Office.

The Caldwell County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in locating a missing Hudson man. 51-year-old Joel Whitener Hart is described as 5'8' 220 pounds and last seen Friday September 30th around 9:30am at his home on Deal Lane. He was supposed to visit a friend in the Rhodhiss area, then go to an appointment in Morganton by 11am. He was last seen on a silver and blue moped and has not been seen or heard from since. If you the whereabouts of Joel Whitener Hart, call the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office at 828-758-2324 or Crimestoppers at 828-758-8300.

Hickory's Oktoberfest begins its 31st year today, with food vendors opening at Noon and the official hours from 5-11pm Saturday's schedule is 10am till 11pm and Sunday Noon-5pm. Three days of fun, food, games, crafts, and entertainment. Four stages will offer a diverse lineup of local and regional entertainment. For more information visit http://www.hickoryoktoberfest.com