AMES – Emails show more details as to why investigators gathered evidence against student athletes and online sports betting. WHO-13 reports the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation used geofencing to track cell phone activity at both Iowa and Iowa State. DCI agents believed Iowa Code allowed them to use the software, which is already used by the Racing and Gaming Commission. No warrant was ever issued. Multiple agents disclosed their use in a series of emails, but expressed their actions may not have been popular. A lawsuit is ongoing in Story County Court with several athletes seeking damages, believing their constitutional rights were violated.

DES MOINES – Governor Kim Reynolds signed a bill Wednesday at lowers all tax rates in Iowa to 3.8% on income. The Des Moines Register reports this accelerated previous legislation that would have established the flat tax by 2026. The law gives Iowa the sixth-lowest income tax rate among those that have them — nine states do not have one.

PERRY (NOT FOR RVR) – Members of the Perry Police Department received Iowa’s Medal of Merit for their actions on January 4th. KCCI-TV reports Representative Zach Nun presented four officers with the recognition for their response to the Perry High School shooting. That included Chief Eric Vaughn, Officer Micaela Zagar, Officer Cameron Martinez and School Resource Officer Josh Moore.

ANKENY – The Iowa Beef Industry announced JJ’s Tavern and Grill in Ankeny was the winner of Iowa’s Best Burger Contest. The annual award takes place via vote to get to ten different finalists. JJ’S Smash Burger was its highlight, featuring American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickles