Michelle Carter's Suicide Texting Conviction Appealed: Patch PM

Welcome to Thursday's Patch PM. Here are the top headlines from across the Massachusetts Patch network:

Michelle Carter Appeal Heard In Suicide Texting Case

Carter was sentenced to 15 months in prison for the 2014 death of her boyfriend. Her lawyers were in the state's highest court Thursday appealing.

Accused Child Rapist Offered $30k To Kill Victim, Mother: Police

Prosecutors say Scott Smith, 38, of Salisbury, wanted the deaths to look like accidents.

Head Of MA Environmental Police Suspended, Pending Investigation

Colonel McGinn is currently suspended without pay pending an internal review of operational issues at the MA Environmental Police.

Update: 'All Clear' Given After Boston Schools Shelter In Place

Simmons College sent out a message to students warning of an 'active threat on campus.' Police said they found 'zero shots were fired.'

Propane Dealers Can't Keep Up With Sudden Merrimack Valley Demand

Looking for an alternative until your gas service is restored in Andover, Lawrence and North Andover? You may be out of luck.

RI Governor, AG Candidates Arrested, 48 Pounds of Marijuana Seized

These Compassion Party candidates are feeling some kind of way.

NH Hunter Stuck In Mud For 33 Hours Rescued

NH Fish and Game said a 79-year-old man became stuck in mud up to his neck for 33 hours while trying to retrieve a duck in a swamp.

In this July 29, 2016, file photo Michelle Carter stands with her attorneys at the Bristol County Juvenile Court in Taunton, Mass. Jury selection is set to begin Monday, June 5, 2017. (George Rizer/The Globe via AP, Pool, File)