The mayor of The Village of Dadeville has been charged in with possession of child pornography.
On Thursday April 29, 2010, officers with the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the St. Charles County Cyber Crime-Unit and deputies with the Dade County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at the home of James "Jim" A. Toler, 63.of Greenfield.
According to the probable cause statement, officers seized Toler's computer that allegedly had at least seven images of underage children in various sexual poses and/or acts on it.
Toler's was released from the Dade County jail after posting $25,000 bond. A jailer says there is no mugshot is available for Toler "because we got busy and forgot to take one."
His next scheduled court appearance is May 18th.
Friday, April 30, 2010
UPDATED~~DEVELOPING~~Vance Charged With First-Degree Murder In Texas County:
Mistie Vance mug shotA woman from Mountain View has been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action for the shotgun slaying of a man near Clear Springs last night (04-29-10.)
Texas County Sheriff Carl Watson says it appears an alleged dispute over drugs led to the death of 56 year-old Monty Dale Beltz. The Sheriff says that the preliminary investigation shows that when Beltz arrived home around 6:30 p.m. two people were hiding in a building on his property and ambushed him.
Texas County Sheriff Carl Watson says it appears an alleged dispute over drugs led to the death of 56 year-old Monty Dale Beltz. The Sheriff says that the preliminary investigation shows that when Beltz arrived home around 6:30 p.m. two people were hiding in a building on his property and ambushed him.
In the probable cause statement used as the basis for the charges, James Skelton, 22, told investigators that he and Mistie Dawn Vance, 32, walked to Beltz's house to retrieve her belongings and steal prescription medication from Beltz. Before leaving the shed where the two were hiding, Skelton told investigators he saw Vance put two shotgun shells in her pocket.
Sheriff Carl Watson
Skelton says as Vance was attempting to pry open the front door of Beltz's home, he [Beltz] opened the door and the two went inside and argued for about an hour. When Vance exited the trailer she was allegedly holding a 12 gauge shotgun. Skelton says Beltz followed Vance outside and ordered her off of his property. Vance began walking backward with the gun in her hands telling Beltz "to not make her do it." He say he then witnessed Vance shoot Beltz in the abdomen.
Vance then backed up Beltz's truck to where he lay got out reloaded the gun and was going to shoot Beltz again before Beltz's brother disarmed her and called 9-1-1. Beltz was airlifted to a Springfield hospital where he died from his wounds several hours later.
Early reports indicated that a woman with long blonde hair fled into the woods surrounding the crime scene after the shooting and was apprehended in a farmhouse not far from the scene of the shooting.
Watson says at the time that a 22 year-old man turned himself into authorities in Mountain View.
Vance, pleaded guilty in 2005 to resisting arrest and in 2006 she pled out to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. She received probation on each conviction.
Mistie Vance is considered a flight risk and is being held in the Texas County jail on 2 Million dollars bond.
The Howell County Sheriff's Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol are assisting in the investigation.
Vance then backed up Beltz's truck to where he lay got out reloaded the gun and was going to shoot Beltz again before Beltz's brother disarmed her and called 9-1-1. Beltz was airlifted to a Springfield hospital where he died from his wounds several hours later.
Early reports indicated that a woman with long blonde hair fled into the woods surrounding the crime scene after the shooting and was apprehended in a farmhouse not far from the scene of the shooting.
Watson says at the time that a 22 year-old man turned himself into authorities in Mountain View.
Vance, pleaded guilty in 2005 to resisting arrest and in 2006 she pled out to a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. She received probation on each conviction.
Mistie Vance is considered a flight risk and is being held in the Texas County jail on 2 Million dollars bond.
The Howell County Sheriff's Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol are assisting in the investigation.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Suspected Serial Bank Robber Arrested In Phelps County:
John David Farnell mug shotA Missouri Highway Patrol trooper arrested man suspected suspected of being a serial bank robber this morning (04-29-10) in Phelps County.
About 10:35 a.m. a man, who said he was armed, robbed National Bank in Cuba. The suspect got into a white Dodge Grand Caravan with Missouri plates and fled. The description of the suspect and the vehicle used match that of five previous bank heists in Moberly, Sedalia, Rolla, Chillicothe and El Dorado Springs.
At approximately 11:29 a.m. a trooper spotted a van matching the description on Missouri 8 and Missouri 68 in Phelps County, just south of St. James. When the trooper searched the vehicle she found a handgun and money believed to be stolen from the bank.
Arrested for the bank robbery of First Community National Bank in Cuba was John David Farnell, 58, of Fulton, Missouri
The highway patrol, the FBI, the Cuba Police Department, the Rolla Police Department, and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department are continuing the investigation.
About 10:35 a.m. a man, who said he was armed, robbed National Bank in Cuba. The suspect got into a white Dodge Grand Caravan with Missouri plates and fled. The description of the suspect and the vehicle used match that of five previous bank heists in Moberly, Sedalia, Rolla, Chillicothe and El Dorado Springs.
At approximately 11:29 a.m. a trooper spotted a van matching the description on Missouri 8 and Missouri 68 in Phelps County, just south of St. James. When the trooper searched the vehicle she found a handgun and money believed to be stolen from the bank.
Arrested for the bank robbery of First Community National Bank in Cuba was John David Farnell, 58, of Fulton, Missouri
The highway patrol, the FBI, the Cuba Police Department, the Rolla Police Department, and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department are continuing the investigation.
International Fugitive From Springfield Turned Over To U. S. Authorities:
An international fugitive wanted on sex crimes involving a child from Barry County has been turned over to authorities in the United States.
On September 30, 2008, Troy Robert Greenbank, 31, Springfield, fled to Canada before he was federally indicted on two charges related to sexual offenses involving a 10 year-old girl. Federal prosecutors allege that Greenbank conspired with the mother of the girl to use her daughter to make kiddie porn between Aug. 1, 2005, and Feb. 22, 2006.
Greenbank allegedly met the woman in an Internet chat room then met her at a motel for sex. It is alleged that Greenbank told the woman that he wanted to have a threesome with the woman and her daughter. The mother agreed to the proposal and allegedly sent photographs to Greenbank showing her and her daughter in sexual acts. Those same court documents say that Greenback bought a sex toy for the girl.
Greenbank admitted that he made the proposal to the girl's mother, but said he never actually had sex with the girl because she had to stay late at school the day of the arranged sexual assault.The girl’s father alerted authorities when he found the sex toy Greenbank allegedly bought his daughter.
U.S. authorities alerted Canadian authorities to Greenbank whereabouts in Winnipeg several days after the man was indicted. With the assistance of the Winnipeg Police Service he was arrested at a Winnipeg hotel on an immigration warrant. Greenback fought deportation and attempted to obtain refugee status and protection from the Canadian government. He claimed that he would likely be killed in prison if he was returned to the United States to face justice.
Greenback, who served in the U.S. military, is now working on his second Master's degree in criminal justice. He worked as a dispatcher for campus security at Missouri State University and was a volunteer member of the Civil Air Patrol.
“I would like to commend the CBSA officers involved in the removal of this individual from our country,” the Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety said in a news release. “This government will not tolerate the harbouring of fugitives from justice. We are committed to ensuring that the safety and security of Canadians are not compromised.”
The girl's mom is in state prison after being convicted in Barry County of sex crimes involving her child. Greenbank is looking at 15 to 30 years in federal prison on one charge and between 5 and 20 years on the other if he is convicted. He could also be fined up to $250,000 for each offense.
On September 30, 2008, Troy Robert Greenbank, 31, Springfield, fled to Canada before he was federally indicted on two charges related to sexual offenses involving a 10 year-old girl. Federal prosecutors allege that Greenbank conspired with the mother of the girl to use her daughter to make kiddie porn between Aug. 1, 2005, and Feb. 22, 2006.
Greenbank allegedly met the woman in an Internet chat room then met her at a motel for sex. It is alleged that Greenbank told the woman that he wanted to have a threesome with the woman and her daughter. The mother agreed to the proposal and allegedly sent photographs to Greenbank showing her and her daughter in sexual acts. Those same court documents say that Greenback bought a sex toy for the girl.
Greenbank admitted that he made the proposal to the girl's mother, but said he never actually had sex with the girl because she had to stay late at school the day of the arranged sexual assault.The girl’s father alerted authorities when he found the sex toy Greenbank allegedly bought his daughter.
U.S. authorities alerted Canadian authorities to Greenbank whereabouts in Winnipeg several days after the man was indicted. With the assistance of the Winnipeg Police Service he was arrested at a Winnipeg hotel on an immigration warrant. Greenback fought deportation and attempted to obtain refugee status and protection from the Canadian government. He claimed that he would likely be killed in prison if he was returned to the United States to face justice.
Greenback, who served in the U.S. military, is now working on his second Master's degree in criminal justice. He worked as a dispatcher for campus security at Missouri State University and was a volunteer member of the Civil Air Patrol.
“I would like to commend the CBSA officers involved in the removal of this individual from our country,” the Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety said in a news release. “This government will not tolerate the harbouring of fugitives from justice. We are committed to ensuring that the safety and security of Canadians are not compromised.”
The girl's mom is in state prison after being convicted in Barry County of sex crimes involving her child. Greenbank is looking at 15 to 30 years in federal prison on one charge and between 5 and 20 years on the other if he is convicted. He could also be fined up to $250,000 for each offense.
Two Year-Old Dies After Being Run Over By Father's Truck:
A two year-old boy from Nixa was killed yesterday (04-28-10) when he was run over by his father's pickup truck.
Ozark Police Chief Lyle Hodges says Daniel Goetz, 26, unbuckled his son, Jacobie, from his car seat when he got out of his vehicle at Riverside Heights to talk to a friend. Daniel Goetz told investigators that he heard the emergency brake pop, and saw the truck begin to roll. Goetz says when he opened the truck door to try and stop the vehicle, the little boy fell out and was run over.
A news release from Hodges says the "preliminary investigation" shows Jacobie knocked the vehicle out of gear. Goetz, however, says his son released the parking brake.
Hodges says, "It was a pretty bad deal. We are in the preliminary stages of the investigation...it's appears to be a tragic accident."
Ozark Police Chief Lyle Hodges says Daniel Goetz, 26, unbuckled his son, Jacobie, from his car seat when he got out of his vehicle at Riverside Heights to talk to a friend. Daniel Goetz told investigators that he heard the emergency brake pop, and saw the truck begin to roll. Goetz says when he opened the truck door to try and stop the vehicle, the little boy fell out and was run over.
A news release from Hodges says the "preliminary investigation" shows Jacobie knocked the vehicle out of gear. Goetz, however, says his son released the parking brake.
Hodges says, "It was a pretty bad deal. We are in the preliminary stages of the investigation...it's appears to be a tragic accident."
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
BREAKING~~Peter "Pete" Newman Sentencing Postponed:
Peter "Pete" Newman
The sentencing for a former Christian camp counselor who pleaded guilty in February to multiple sex crimes involving children has been postponed.
Peter "Pete" Newman's attorney, Tom Carver says, "Some witnesses were not be able to attend the scheduled April 30th sentencing. Judge (Mark) Orr rescheduled it for June 9th."
Peter "Pete" Newman's attorney, Tom Carver says, "Some witnesses were not be able to attend the scheduled April 30th sentencing. Judge (Mark) Orr rescheduled it for June 9th."
Attorney Tom CarverNewman was charged last September with seven felony sex crimes involving underage boys who were campers at Branson based Kanakuk Kamp, a Christian sports youth camp. In November, Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell filed five additional felony sex crimes involving underage boys against Newman.
Taney County Prosecutor Jeff MerrellNewman pleaded guilty February 18th to two counts of first-degree statutory sodomy, three counts of second-degree statutory sodomy, and three counts of enticement of a child.
Merrell says, "A witness for the defense could not make it on the 30th---everything is in place on our part. It is of no benefit to the victims to drag this case out, but we will play the cards that we've been dealt."
The maximum sentence that Newman could receive is 171 years prison--the minimum is 5 years.
The state of Colorado will likely extradite Newman to La Plata County after his sentencing. He is wanted there on a warrant for another alleged sex crime against an underage boy who was a camper at Kanakuk's Colorado (now named KIVU) location. That court record is sealed until Newman appears in court there.
Sources close to investigations into Newman tell The Sentinel that other states are looking at Newman and his alleged illegal activity with boys in addition to Colorado.
Newman is being held without bond in the Taney County jail while he awaits sentencing.
UPDATED: Nixa Woman Found Guilty Of Statutory Sodomy; Sentenced To Twelve Years:
Maya Zapata GasaA woman from Nixa accused of sexually abusing two foster children almost six years ago has been found guilty of statutory sodomy.
The jury trial for Maya Zapata Gasa, 34, was to have begun on Monday, however, she opted for a bench trial in front of Judge John Moody that lasted 2 1/2 days, according to Christian County Prosecutor Ron Cleek.
The jury trial for Maya Zapata Gasa, 34, was to have begun on Monday, however, she opted for a bench trial in front of Judge John Moody that lasted 2 1/2 days, according to Christian County Prosecutor Ron Cleek.
Christopher L. GrayCleek says evidence showed Gasa performed oral sex and touched the victim/s inappropriately.
Gasa, and her former live-in boyfriend, Christopher L. Gray, were both arrested in May of 2004 for illegal drug activity and charges that they sexually molested two girls, 11 and 6. In court documents Gasa told investigators that "he (Gray) became a foster parent so he could have the girls as sex slaves." After the couple's arrest, the children that Gray had adopted and was fostering, as well as Gasa's two son's, were placed in protective custody.
Gasa was found not guilty of sexual exploitation of a minor.
Gasa, and her former live-in boyfriend, Christopher L. Gray, were both arrested in May of 2004 for illegal drug activity and charges that they sexually molested two girls, 11 and 6. In court documents Gasa told investigators that "he (Gray) became a foster parent so he could have the girls as sex slaves." After the couple's arrest, the children that Gray had adopted and was fostering, as well as Gasa's two son's, were placed in protective custody.
Gasa was found not guilty of sexual exploitation of a minor.
Christian County Prosecutor Ron CleekGray was charged with six counts of statutory sodomy, two counts of statutory rape and one count of sexual exploitation.
Gray was found guilty on all counts and sentenced to 270 years in prison. However, eight of the nine convictions were overturned on appeal. He is serving 30 years (life) in prison for sexual exploitation of a minor. "I hope to get him retried as soon as possible," Cleek says.
Gasa, who remains free on bond while she awaits sentencing, is facing 10 to 30 (life is 30 years in MO) years in prison on the statutory sodomy conviction when she is sentenced on June 25th.
Cleek says, "She has never not appeared for a court hearing. If she fails to appear at sentencing she waives the right to appeal."
UPDATE:
Gasa was sentenced to 12 years in prison. She will have to serve at least 10.2 years in prison before she becomes eligible for parole.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Jonnathan Graven Sentenced To Twenty Years For Johnson's Murder:
Jonnathan GravenA Howell County man was sentenced today to 20 in prison for the November 2008 death of 22 year-old Ricky Joe Johnson.
Jonnathan D. Graven, 33, had been charged with second-degree murder, but entered an Alford plea to voluntary manslaughter. An Alford plea is where a defendant does not admit guilt but agrees that there is sufficient evidence for a conviction if the case were to go to trial.
Investigators found Johnson's body in the back seat of his car inside a burning garage on the property of a rural West Plains farmhouse that was undergoing renovation after a passerby called in the fire.
Prosecutors say that a fight over methamphetamine led to Johnson's death. Court documents reveal that Johnson was at the home of Jared and Jonnathan Graven late in the evening of November 14th and the early morning hours of November 15th, 2008.
In the probable cause statement, investigators say that Johnson was under the influence of prescription medication when he went to lay down in the bedroom of Jared Graven. The document goes on to state that while Johnson was sleeping the Graven brothers stole meth out of the pockets of Johnson's pants and vehicle.
When Johnson awoke he confronted the Graven brothers about the missing drugs and a fight broke out in which Johnson was "hit and stomped" by the Graven brothers, causing his death.
Investigator Shannon Caldwell writes in his report that after placing Johnson's body in the young mans newly purchased car, Jared Graven drove Johnson's vehicle to a rural Howell County farmhouse. Once there authorities say the brothers parked the vehicle in the garage and torched it.
When officers served a search warrant on the residence of the Gravens at 3823 County Road 6340 near West Plains on November 18th, they noticed that there was no bed in Jared Gravens bedroom, there was fresh paint in different rooms in the house, as well as new linoleum and carpet in different parts of the house. During that search investigators seized several articles that appeared to have blood evidence on them.
Cops finally caught up with the brothers at the Tally Ho Motel in Thayer on November 19th. Court documents say that during a search of the room and a pick-up truck the Graven's were driving, "blood evidence was located and collected from the inside of the vehicle."
Jonnathan Graven, whose trial was moved to Butler County on a change of venue, was charged as a prior and persistent offender which changed the class of his felony conviction.
Jonnathan D. Graven, 33, had been charged with second-degree murder, but entered an Alford plea to voluntary manslaughter. An Alford plea is where a defendant does not admit guilt but agrees that there is sufficient evidence for a conviction if the case were to go to trial.
Investigators found Johnson's body in the back seat of his car inside a burning garage on the property of a rural West Plains farmhouse that was undergoing renovation after a passerby called in the fire.
Prosecutors say that a fight over methamphetamine led to Johnson's death. Court documents reveal that Johnson was at the home of Jared and Jonnathan Graven late in the evening of November 14th and the early morning hours of November 15th, 2008.
In the probable cause statement, investigators say that Johnson was under the influence of prescription medication when he went to lay down in the bedroom of Jared Graven. The document goes on to state that while Johnson was sleeping the Graven brothers stole meth out of the pockets of Johnson's pants and vehicle.
When Johnson awoke he confronted the Graven brothers about the missing drugs and a fight broke out in which Johnson was "hit and stomped" by the Graven brothers, causing his death.
Investigator Shannon Caldwell writes in his report that after placing Johnson's body in the young mans newly purchased car, Jared Graven drove Johnson's vehicle to a rural Howell County farmhouse. Once there authorities say the brothers parked the vehicle in the garage and torched it.
When officers served a search warrant on the residence of the Gravens at 3823 County Road 6340 near West Plains on November 18th, they noticed that there was no bed in Jared Gravens bedroom, there was fresh paint in different rooms in the house, as well as new linoleum and carpet in different parts of the house. During that search investigators seized several articles that appeared to have blood evidence on them.
Cops finally caught up with the brothers at the Tally Ho Motel in Thayer on November 19th. Court documents say that during a search of the room and a pick-up truck the Graven's were driving, "blood evidence was located and collected from the inside of the vehicle."
Jonnathan Graven, whose trial was moved to Butler County on a change of venue, was charged as a prior and persistent offender which changed the class of his felony conviction.
Jared GravenJared Graven, who was also charged with second-degree murder, pleaded guilty in last May to voluntary manslaughter, tampering with a motor vehicle and abandonment of a corpse.
He was sentenced to life in prison, which is 30 years in Missouri, on the manslaughter charge and seven years for tampering with a motor vehicle and abandonment of a corpse in Texas County where where his case was moved a change of venue from. Those sentences are to be served concurrently (at the same time.)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
UPDATED: Stepfather Pleads Guilty To Voluntary Manslaughter:
Daniel Dale LambornA Cabool man charged with killing his four year-old stepdaughter in 2008 has pleaded guilty.
Texas County prosecutors originally charged Daniel Dale Lamborn, 25, on December 30, 2008, with child abuse resulting in death for the November 2008 death of 4 year-old Camille Fayte Denis'. That charge was amended to voluntary manslaughter.
An investigation into the little girls death was launched on November 22, 2008, by the Missouri Department of Social Services and the Texas County Child Welfare Board.
Camille Fayte Denis
According to the probable cause statement, the coroner told investigators that he believed Camille could have died from asphyxiation. However, an autopsy revealed that the little girl died from a tear to the right atrium of her heart.
During an interview with Sgt. Travis Davis of the Texas County Sheriff's department, Lamborn told Davis he was home alone with his children when a large toy box fell on little Camille's chest. When confronted with the autopsy results, Davis said Lamborn changed his story offering multiple accounts of what happened, they include; tossing Camille in the air, and stepping on the little girls chest.
He later told detectives that the toy box story was a lie, that he fell on top of the toddler with his forearm. He then requested an attorney.
He admitted in court that he punched Camille in the chest twice because she wouldn't mind him.
Lamborn, who's trial was moved to Phelps County on a change of venue, is scheduled to be sentenced on July 8th.
Christian County Assessors Federal Trial Postponed:
The federal trials for Christian County Assessor Sandra Bryant-Littles and her husband Lonnie Utah Littles that were scheduled to begin today have been postponed according to public affairs director for US Attorney for the Western District of Missouri. Don Ledford says the trials have been pushed back until at least June.
Bryant-Littles was indicted on four counts of mail fraud for allegedly not property assessing her own personal property and that of she and her husbands Poco Cala Ranch in Clever.
Lonnie Littles and a ranch hand of the couples, Jesse Rice were indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to commit bank fraud for an allegedly scheme to bilk the Little's insurance company for a bogus cattle theft in February of 2009.
The couples ranch hand, Jesse Rice, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud on February 11, 2010. He is currently awaiting sentencing.
Attorney General Chris Koster filed paperwork seeking the removal of Bryant-Littles from her elected office in February. Bryant-Littles is fighting that action. For now Bryant-Littles is “immediately enjoined from engaging in any activity, or exercising any authority, as the County Assessor.”
If Bryant-Littles resigns, or is permanetly removed from office, Gov. Jay Nixon will appoint a successor, who would serve out the rest of her term.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Newton County School Board Member Charged With Statutory Rape, Possession Of Child Porn:
Matthew A. BoyerA member of a school board in Newton County has been charged with two counts of second-degree statutory rape and possession of child pornography.
Newton County Prosecutor Jake Skouby filed those charges against Matthew A. Boyer, 35, of Neosho, on Thursday April 22nd.
Newton County Prosecutor Jake Skouby filed those charges against Matthew A. Boyer, 35, of Neosho, on Thursday April 22nd.
Boyer, had served on the school board of the Westview School Board of Education for eight years until his resignation on Friday April 23rd. Superintendent Mark Fitch says, "A family member brought in his letter of resignation and we voted to accept it the same day. The charges come as a shock to me and other members of the school board."
The probable cause statement used as the basis for charging Boyer says, the Newton County Sheriff’s Department began an investigation into Boyer after receiving information from a high school girl who alleges she had sexual intercourse with Boyer on at least two occasions in September of 2009 when she was 16 years-old.
When police served a search warrant at Boyer's residence they found pictures of another underage girl on his home computer.
The probable cause statement used as the basis for charging Boyer says, the Newton County Sheriff’s Department began an investigation into Boyer after receiving information from a high school girl who alleges she had sexual intercourse with Boyer on at least two occasions in September of 2009 when she was 16 years-old.
When police served a search warrant at Boyer's residence they found pictures of another underage girl on his home computer.
Online court records show that Boyer entered an Alford Plead to misdemeanor child endangerment in February. He was ordered to serve 60-days in jail, however, that assessment was suspended and he was placed on two years unsupervised probation. Boyer also pleaded guilty to nonsupport in 2008 and was received five years probation.
Boyer is in being held in the Newton County jail on $125,000 bond.
Boyer is in being held in the Newton County jail on $125,000 bond.
Prosecutors Drop Arson Charges Against Williams In Deadly House Fire:
David Williams
Charges have been dropped against the man accused of starting a house fire last month that killed his fiance's three children.
Dan Patterson, the chief assistant for the Greene County prosecutors office, says he was contacted after business hours Thursday April 21st by a fire investigator who told him that the evidence used to charge David Williams was questionable at best. "The cause and certainty of the origin of the fire could not be determined at this time," said Patterson.
Prosecutors charged Williams after an accelerant-sniffing dog, Ashes, "hit" on accelerant on Williams jeans and at several places within the house as well.
It was a sensational story....how could a man who acted as the father to three children set a fire that would kill them? Williams fiance,Violet Watson, steadfastly maintained his innocence, however the court of public opinion had already convicted Williams as a baby killer. The public outcry was deafening.
The Sentinel raised the question of the possibility of flashover to prosecutors last month after we learned that lab evidence showed no trace of accelerants in any of the evidence taken to the crime lab. Patterson now says, "There is insufficient evidence to proceed at this time." He also notes that the investigation is ongoing.
In December of 1991 a similar fire took place in Corsicana, Texas. Cameron Todd Willingham was convicted of starting a fire that killed his three children. Arson investigators testified that their were "char patterns" and accelerants used to start that fire and that Willingham was responsible for the fire that claimed his children's lives.
Prosecutors offered Willingham a plea deal, if he would plead guilty they would take the death penalty off the table and offer him a life sentence. Willingham, who maintained his innocence, rejected the state's offer and took his chances with the jury. It was a gamble that ultimately cost him his life.
In August of 1992, after deliberating less than an hour, the jury convicted Willingham of three counts of capital murder. In January of 2004, Willingham was scheduled to be put to death, Dr. Gerald Hurst, a scientist and fire investigator, who has been successful in helping overturn numerous arson convictions was contacted by friends and relatives of Willingham.
Hurst agreed to have a look at the case pro bono. Hurst concluded that the Willingham fire was accidental and that the burn patterns and accelerant found at the scene was the result of flashover. Lawyers for Willingham filed Hurst's findings with the Texas Board of Pardon and Parole. Attorney's say the board received the findings, but never reviewed them before denying Willingham's plea for clemency. He was executed on February 17, 2004.
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Dan Patterson, the chief assistant for the Greene County prosecutors office, says he was contacted after business hours Thursday April 21st by a fire investigator who told him that the evidence used to charge David Williams was questionable at best. "The cause and certainty of the origin of the fire could not be determined at this time," said Patterson.
Prosecutors charged Williams after an accelerant-sniffing dog, Ashes, "hit" on accelerant on Williams jeans and at several places within the house as well.
It was a sensational story....how could a man who acted as the father to three children set a fire that would kill them? Williams fiance,Violet Watson, steadfastly maintained his innocence, however the court of public opinion had already convicted Williams as a baby killer. The public outcry was deafening.
The Sentinel raised the question of the possibility of flashover to prosecutors last month after we learned that lab evidence showed no trace of accelerants in any of the evidence taken to the crime lab. Patterson now says, "There is insufficient evidence to proceed at this time." He also notes that the investigation is ongoing.
In December of 1991 a similar fire took place in Corsicana, Texas. Cameron Todd Willingham was convicted of starting a fire that killed his three children. Arson investigators testified that their were "char patterns" and accelerants used to start that fire and that Willingham was responsible for the fire that claimed his children's lives.
Prosecutors offered Willingham a plea deal, if he would plead guilty they would take the death penalty off the table and offer him a life sentence. Willingham, who maintained his innocence, rejected the state's offer and took his chances with the jury. It was a gamble that ultimately cost him his life.
In August of 1992, after deliberating less than an hour, the jury convicted Willingham of three counts of capital murder. In January of 2004, Willingham was scheduled to be put to death, Dr. Gerald Hurst, a scientist and fire investigator, who has been successful in helping overturn numerous arson convictions was contacted by friends and relatives of Willingham.
Hurst agreed to have a look at the case pro bono. Hurst concluded that the Willingham fire was accidental and that the burn patterns and accelerant found at the scene was the result of flashover. Lawyers for Willingham filed Hurst's findings with the Texas Board of Pardon and Parole. Attorney's say the board received the findings, but never reviewed them before denying Willingham's plea for clemency. He was executed on February 17, 2004.
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Watson children killed in fire-
During his 37 day incarceration, Williams had asked to be allowed attend the funeral of Alexis, Devin and Kelsey. Judge Mark Powell granted that request, but Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott said he did not have enough manpower to transport Williams' to attend and make sure he had no physical contact with anyone at the service.
Sheriff Jim Arnott
Last month Williams attorney, Andy Hosmer said, "An innocent man in Texas was executed for a similar situation. We don't want to see an innocent man go to jail here for something he didn't do."
Hosmer says, "In a rush to judgement, prosecutors charged an innocent man. My client is relieved to be out of jail, and happy to be home with his family. We are weighing all of our options at this point. I'm not sure how we will proceed."
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Hosmer says a civil case is not out of the question.
UPDATE 03-16-13:
Violet Watson-Williams has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against her former landlords Richard and Nancy Preffitt. The lawsuit, which seeks damages in excess of $25,000, says the Prefritt's “owed a duty” to Watson and her children when they rented them a house that should have been safe. It alleges that the Preffitt's failed to inspect and make repairs to the home prior to Watson and her children moving in.
The house had “faulty wiring” and did not have the appropriate number of smoke detectors and/or failed to have functioning smoke detectors in the residence, according to documents filed in the lawsuit filed last week in Greene County.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Trooper Injured In Near Head-On Crash:
A Highway Patrol trooper was injured last night (04-21-10) when his patrol car was struck nearly head-on on I-44 in Newton County.
Trooper T. R. Morris was responding to a report that John R.Bristow,43, Edmond,Oklahoma, had led law officers in Oklahoma and Kansas on a high speed chase and that the suspect was nearing the Missouri state line.
Bristow, who was going the wrong way on the freeway, slammed into the troopers patrol car just east of the Missouri 166 exit on Interstate 44.
Bristow (a.) has been charged with assault of a law enforcement officer, driving while intoxicated, leaving the scene of an accident, and a misdemeanor Clay County, Missouri warrant for fraud.
He is being held in the Newton County jail on a $10,000 cash only bond.
Trooper Morris suffered minor injuries and was treated and released at St. John’s Hospital, Joplin, Missouri.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
!UPDATED W/ SENTENCE~Ex-Boyfriend Charged With Capital Murder In Alicia Minton's Disappearance:
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Randall "Todd" Greenway
Alicia Minton's mother took this picture of her daughter shortly before her disappearance
Minton, the mother of four children, disappeared after leaving her children with a friend at Enterprise Rent-A-Car on Walnut Street to Beaver Lake with Greenway on June 1, 2007. Three days after her daughters disappearance, Brenda Mathis filed a missing persons report with police.
Six days later, Minton's silver BMW was found in a parking lot near the intersection of Locust and Second streets. Two weeks later a purse was found floating in the water near Deer and Bear islands, near the Arkansas 12 bridge. Friends and family members positively identified it as belonging to Minton.
Charging documents allege that for over a month Greenway had been trying to convince Minton to go the lake. That is about the same time that Greenway discovered that Minton had been working undercover on some drug cases with the Rogers Police Department, to help Greenway out of some trouble he was in with cops. However, somewhere along the line Minton had a change of heart, telling detectives that she no longer wanted her efforts to benefit Greenway.
Investigators say that the front part of a boat belonging to Greenway's father was much cleaner than the rest of the vessel, and that two 35-pound weights were missing from Greenway's home shortly after Minton's disappearance.
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In an interview with detectives, Greenway's girlfriend (who is unidentified in the probable cause affidavit) told them that Greenway told her he had taken Minton out on the boat to an island and that she was "bitching" about her (Greenway's girlfriend,) and that it made him angry. He told the woman he walked up behind Minton, slit her throat and then forced her head in the water "because she was still alive and still bitching." He told the woman he wrapped Minton in a shower curtain, tied weights to it and drove away from the island and dumped her (Minton) in the water. Greenway told the woman "no one would ever find Alicia's body,"
Alicia Minton
The lake has not been kind to authorities and searchers. Underwater boulders, fences and foundations from old houses are hazards to divers and sonar equipment. There is little to no current in the water, even when Beaver dam is opened. One detective says that if body was tossed in the lake, it could stay where it landed forever.
From police encounters alone it appears that Greenway and Minton had an explosive relationship. Minton called police several times in 2006 and 2007 to report problems with Greenway.
In June 2006 Rogers police were dispatched to Greenway's residence on North 37th Street where they found Minton lying in the driveway with a golf ball-sized lump on her head. Minton allegedly told responding officers that Greenway dragged her from his home by her hair then slammed her head against the concrete driveway. Authorities were also contacted in the winter months of 2007 about Greenway sending threatening text messages to Minton
Greenway's criminal past dates back to 1993; most of his run ins with the law involve drug dealing or possession of drugs.
A little over a week after Minton's disappearance, authorities arrested Greenway on drug charges not related to the woman's disappearance. On June 21, 2007, Greenway pleaded guilty to five drug charges and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Several inmates who have done time with Greenway say that he has made killing Minton. One of those inmates told detectives that Greenway said Minton, "Couldn't talk anymore because she was throat less." Another inmate says Greenway told him "she's fish food by now," while yet another says that Greenway told him "he cut her throat and she bled out quickly. "
Benton County Sheriff's Sgt. Chris Sparks and a fellow officer drove over three hours to arrest Greenway on the murder warrant at the Wrightsville Unit of the Arkansas Department of Correction. "He wasn't very talkative. He did tell us he was eligible for parole at the end of this year or sometime next year."
Sgt. Chris Sparks
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Sparks says he has had a few cases that have become "more than just a case to me...for sure, this is one of them." Sparks, who has become close to Minton's family says, "I want some sort of resolution for them. When you see all that they've had to endure, it tugs at your heart. I want them to find peace someday."
Greenway has been arraigned on the capital murder charge. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 16th.
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UPDATE JUNE 2011:
Greenway pleaded guilty to an amended charge of first-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years in prison for Minton's death. That is in addition to the 20 years he was serving on drug charges.
The search for Minton's remains continues.
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UPDATE 08-15-11:
Dive teams from Missouri are assisting authorities in Arkansas in the search for Minton's remains in 60 to 120 feet of water north of Deer Island.
Randall "Todd" GreenwayThe ex-boyfriend of a missing woman from Bentonville has been charged with capital murder in the Benton County woman's mysterious disappearance.
Authorities in Benton County, Arkansas arrested Randall "Todd" Greenway, 38, in prison yesterday (04-20-10) on a capital murder warrant for the death of 29 year-old Alicia Minton.
Court documents, which have now been sealed by the court, paint a disturbing picture of Minton's alleged death---and those who have kept Greenway's secret.
Authorities in Benton County, Arkansas arrested Randall "Todd" Greenway, 38, in prison yesterday (04-20-10) on a capital murder warrant for the death of 29 year-old Alicia Minton.
Court documents, which have now been sealed by the court, paint a disturbing picture of Minton's alleged death---and those who have kept Greenway's secret.
Alicia Minton's mother took this picture of her daughter shortly before her disappearanceMinton, the mother of four children, disappeared after leaving her children with a friend at Enterprise Rent-A-Car on Walnut Street to Beaver Lake with Greenway on June 1, 2007. Three days after her daughters disappearance, Brenda Mathis filed a missing persons report with police.
Six days later, Minton's silver BMW was found in a parking lot near the intersection of Locust and Second streets. Two weeks later a purse was found floating in the water near Deer and Bear islands, near the Arkansas 12 bridge. Friends and family members positively identified it as belonging to Minton.
Charging documents allege that for over a month Greenway had been trying to convince Minton to go the lake. That is about the same time that Greenway discovered that Minton had been working undercover on some drug cases with the Rogers Police Department, to help Greenway out of some trouble he was in with cops. However, somewhere along the line Minton had a change of heart, telling detectives that she no longer wanted her efforts to benefit Greenway.
Investigators say that the front part of a boat belonging to Greenway's father was much cleaner than the rest of the vessel, and that two 35-pound weights were missing from Greenway's home shortly after Minton's disappearance.
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In an interview with detectives, Greenway's girlfriend (who is unidentified in the probable cause affidavit) told them that Greenway told her he had taken Minton out on the boat to an island and that she was "bitching" about her (Greenway's girlfriend,) and that it made him angry. He told the woman he walked up behind Minton, slit her throat and then forced her head in the water "because she was still alive and still bitching." He told the woman he wrapped Minton in a shower curtain, tied weights to it and drove away from the island and dumped her (Minton) in the water. Greenway told the woman "no one would ever find Alicia's body,"
Alicia Minton
The lake has not been kind to authorities and searchers. Underwater boulders, fences and foundations from old houses are hazards to divers and sonar equipment. There is little to no current in the water, even when Beaver dam is opened. One detective says that if body was tossed in the lake, it could stay where it landed forever.
From police encounters alone it appears that Greenway and Minton had an explosive relationship. Minton called police several times in 2006 and 2007 to report problems with Greenway.
In June 2006 Rogers police were dispatched to Greenway's residence on North 37th Street where they found Minton lying in the driveway with a golf ball-sized lump on her head. Minton allegedly told responding officers that Greenway dragged her from his home by her hair then slammed her head against the concrete driveway. Authorities were also contacted in the winter months of 2007 about Greenway sending threatening text messages to Minton
Greenway's criminal past dates back to 1993; most of his run ins with the law involve drug dealing or possession of drugs.
A little over a week after Minton's disappearance, authorities arrested Greenway on drug charges not related to the woman's disappearance. On June 21, 2007, Greenway pleaded guilty to five drug charges and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Several inmates who have done time with Greenway say that he has made killing Minton. One of those inmates told detectives that Greenway said Minton, "Couldn't talk anymore because she was throat less." Another inmate says Greenway told him "she's fish food by now," while yet another says that Greenway told him "he cut her throat and she bled out quickly. "
Benton County Sheriff's Sgt. Chris Sparks and a fellow officer drove over three hours to arrest Greenway on the murder warrant at the Wrightsville Unit of the Arkansas Department of Correction. "He wasn't very talkative. He did tell us he was eligible for parole at the end of this year or sometime next year."
Sgt. Chris Sparks-
Sparks says he has had a few cases that have become "more than just a case to me...for sure, this is one of them." Sparks, who has become close to Minton's family says, "I want some sort of resolution for them. When you see all that they've had to endure, it tugs at your heart. I want them to find peace someday."
Greenway has been arraigned on the capital murder charge. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 16th.
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UPDATE JUNE 2011:
Greenway pleaded guilty to an amended charge of first-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years in prison for Minton's death. That is in addition to the 20 years he was serving on drug charges.
The search for Minton's remains continues.
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UPDATE 08-15-11:
Dive teams from Missouri are assisting authorities in Arkansas in the search for Minton's remains in 60 to 120 feet of water north of Deer Island.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Bella Vista, AR police officer charged with manslaughter:
Benton County, Arkansas Prosecutor Van Stone has filed manslaughter charges against a Bella Vista police officer who shot and killed a man during a traffic stop last January.
Stone, says that Coleman Brackney allegedly shot James Ahern six times on Jan. 20 after the man led the officer on a high speed chase. Brackney told investigators that he fired five shots at Ahern because he thought the man was trying to run him down with his car. Brackney says he fired the sixth shot from behind the man when he threw the car in reverse, and he feared for his life.
Stone, says that Coleman Brackney allegedly shot James Ahern six times on Jan. 20 after the man led the officer on a high speed chase. Brackney told investigators that he fired five shots at Ahern because he thought the man was trying to run him down with his car. Brackney says he fired the sixth shot from behind the man when he threw the car in reverse, and he feared for his life.
Coleman Brackney
The probable cause statement reveals a totally different scene than the one that Ahern gave investigators. The officer's dash cam shows Ahern attempting to climb out the back window of his vehicle when Ahern fired the deadly shot. Stone says dash cam video from Ahern's patrol car never shows the reverse lights coming on.
Brackney was fired April 20th after being on paid leave following the shooting.
Gun Threat At Hollister High School "Unsubstantiated Rumor":
High School administrators in Hollister were contacted by police late yesterday afternoon (04-19-10) about a student who was supposed to bring a weapon to school Tuesday April 20th.
Superintendent Dr. Tim Taylor says the rumor involved a student posting a message on a social networking site about bringing a gun to school.
Superintendent Dr. Tim Taylor says the rumor involved a student posting a message on a social networking site about bringing a gun to school.
Hollister High School principal Chris Ford says that police officer and staff members met with the 18 year-old student this morning and discovered that his MySpace page had not had any activity on it for over two months.
Ford declined to discuss any disciplinary actions that might arise against the student who brought the rumor to authorities and administrators. "I can't discuss any issues involving any student because of confidentiality issues."
Ford says, "This is my fourth year in Hollister, and it is the first time I have been contacted by police about a student bringing a gun on campus. Things like this just don't happen in Hollister."
Emails alerting students and parents to the "unsubstantiated rumor" were sent out according to Ford.
Emails alerting students and parents to the "unsubstantiated rumor" were sent out according to Ford.
The following is the email sent to parents by Principal Ford:
HHS students and parents,
Today, the administration heard a rumor about a possible threat at the high school. The information involved the possible presence of a weapon that a student might bring on the high school campus.
After further inquiry, school administration, in conjunction with police, was able to determine that the rumor was not true. We take the greatest care to ensure everyone's safety at HHS at all times and were completely comfortable that the school was safe. If you have any questions, please contact me at (417) 243-4045.
The safety of your child is our top priority! Thank you for your continued support!
Chris Ford
Principal
Hollister High School
Today, the administration heard a rumor about a possible threat at the high school. The information involved the possible presence of a weapon that a student might bring on the high school campus.
After further inquiry, school administration, in conjunction with police, was able to determine that the rumor was not true. We take the greatest care to ensure everyone's safety at HHS at all times and were completely comfortable that the school was safe. If you have any questions, please contact me at (417) 243-4045.
The safety of your child is our top priority! Thank you for your continued support!
Chris Ford
Principal
Hollister High School
Backpack "Bomber" Pleads Guilty To Possession, Stealing:
Don Mitchell OwensIt was an alleged bomb scare at Branson Landing that led to Don Mitchell Owens' arrest on February 18th, but it is a guilty plea to possession of a controlled substance and attempted stealing that keep the man behind bars.
Owens, 35, pleaded guilty to the drug and stealing charges on Thursday April 15th.
The "bomb" turned out to be fireworks according to Taney County prosecutor Jeff Merrell. The prosecutors says Owens attempted to break into an ATM at the Branson Landing with the incendiary device after watching a YouTube video.
Court documents reveal that in Owens' backpack were several tools for breaking into the machine, as well as what looked like a bomb.
Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell
The Springfield Bomb Squad was called in after a security guard came across an abandoned backpack near an ATM on the landing and called police.
A security guard saw Owens and his girlfriend near the fountain and an ATM machine just after midnight, Branson's public communications director Jerry Adams the day of the incident. He says the guard followed the pair into the Hilton Promenade Hotel and identified them from surveillance footage from the hotel.
A night auditor told police that they recognized the pair who were guests at the hotel and gave police their room number. When a search of the room was was conducted the meth was found stuffed in a coffee cup in the couples room, according to the probable cause statement. The girlfriend was never charged in the incident.
Owens, who has been charged as a prior and persistent drug offender, could receive up to 15 years in prison for the drug charge, and up to 7 years on the stealing charge.
Owens is also facing drug related charges in Florida. A warrant was issued for his arrest there after he failed to appear in court.
State Seeking Death Penalty In Luetjen Murders:
Robert BlurtonA Garnett, KS man facing the death penalty was formally arraigned and pleaded not guilty this afternoon in Benton County circuit court to three counts of first-degree murder.
Prosecutors say Robert Blake Blurton bound and shot his aunt and uncle, Sharon and Donnie Luetjen, and their 15 year-old daughter Taron last June during a robbery at the family's Cole Camp home.
Prosecutors say Robert Blake Blurton bound and shot his aunt and uncle, Sharon and Donnie Luetjen, and their 15 year-old daughter Taron last June during a robbery at the family's Cole Camp home.
Attorney General Chris Koster's office is prosecuting the case.
On May 16, 2010, 'Music in the Park' will be held at Water Tower Park in Cole Camp from 2pm to 5pm in memory of Taron, Donnie and Sharon Luetjen. ALL proceeds benefit the Luetjen Music Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Blurton's next court hearing is scheduled for May 11, 2010.
Granby Man Sentenced In Friends Hunting Death:
Jacob D. ShamblinA Newton County man has been sentenced to 120 days in prison for shooting his friend to death last October while they hunted out of season.
Jacob D. Shamblin, 26, Granby, was charged with first-degree involuntary manslaughter in the shooting of nineteen year-old Steven Cox. The two were hunting at night, along with Cox's brother-in-law, on property owned by Cox's father-in-law in rural Granby.
Shamblin told authorities he fired his rifle at a figure he thought was a deer after hearing something rustling in the woods. Cox, who got separated from the other men was not wearing a hunting vest.
Cox's widow and Shamblin's mother told Judge Timothy Perigo that the shooting was a terrible accident and that both families have been receiving counseling since Cox's tragic death.
Newton County Prosecutor Jake Skouby argued he thought the circumstances of the shooting justified jail time, because a man died.
If Shamblin successfully completes the “120 day callback,” he will be released from prison and placed on probation for five years.
Jacob D. Shamblin, 26, Granby, was charged with first-degree involuntary manslaughter in the shooting of nineteen year-old Steven Cox. The two were hunting at night, along with Cox's brother-in-law, on property owned by Cox's father-in-law in rural Granby.
Shamblin told authorities he fired his rifle at a figure he thought was a deer after hearing something rustling in the woods. Cox, who got separated from the other men was not wearing a hunting vest.
Cox's widow and Shamblin's mother told Judge Timothy Perigo that the shooting was a terrible accident and that both families have been receiving counseling since Cox's tragic death.
Newton County Prosecutor Jake Skouby argued he thought the circumstances of the shooting justified jail time, because a man died.
If Shamblin successfully completes the “120 day callback,” he will be released from prison and placed on probation for five years.
Aurora Man Charged In Cemetery Vandalism:
Justin Scott MartinAuthorities in Aurora say they've caught the man responsible for vandalizing several graves in Maple Park Cemetery, some of them belonging to Veterans.
Interim police chief Pat Jenkins says that Martin police received a tip that a white van was driving on Jefferson destroying mailboxes Saturday night. Jenkins says that officers stopped the van and arrested Justin Scott Martin, 21, Aurora, for DWI and property damage.
The police department was notified Sunday about extensive damage at Maple Park Cemetery. Authorities investigating the vandalism at the cemetery found two pieces of a vehicle that allegedly match Martin's van. Twenty three grave sites were damaged, including those of several veterans.
Martin has been charged with institutional vandalism. He is being held in the Lawrence County jail on $10,000 bond. Martin was charged earlier this year with tampering with a motor vehicle and stalking on unrelated cases.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Hollister Man Pleads Guilty To Involuntary Manslaughter:
Daniel PeaseA Taney County man has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter for the 2007 death of a disabled man.
Daniel Pease, 29, Hollister had been charged in August of 2007 with second degree murder for the death of 53-year-old John Ingram, Jr., of Hollister. Ingram died of cardiac arrhythmia after he was beaten up at his home in Hollister. Ingram suffered a stroke in 2002 that left him disabled according to family members.
According to the probable cause statement, Pease told authorities that Joshua Brokaw beat Ingram with his hands, knees and feet. Pease told detectives that Brokaw repeatedly kneed and kicked the man in the face while he held him down for an over an hour. Brokaw told police that Pease punched Ingram four or five times in the face while Ingram was sitting on a couch and, stomped his head and face while he was lying on the floor.
Brokaw told police that Pease asked him to help him put Ingram in the trunk of a car to "help get rid of him." Brokaw told cops that they dragged the man outside where his body was found by deputies.
Brokaw pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter last May for his part in Ingram's death. He was sentenced to 7 years in prison.
Pease is facing 4 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 17th in Forsyth.
Daniel Pease, 29, Hollister had been charged in August of 2007 with second degree murder for the death of 53-year-old John Ingram, Jr., of Hollister. Ingram died of cardiac arrhythmia after he was beaten up at his home in Hollister. Ingram suffered a stroke in 2002 that left him disabled according to family members.
According to the probable cause statement, Pease told authorities that Joshua Brokaw beat Ingram with his hands, knees and feet. Pease told detectives that Brokaw repeatedly kneed and kicked the man in the face while he held him down for an over an hour. Brokaw told police that Pease punched Ingram four or five times in the face while Ingram was sitting on a couch and, stomped his head and face while he was lying on the floor.
Brokaw told police that Pease asked him to help him put Ingram in the trunk of a car to "help get rid of him." Brokaw told cops that they dragged the man outside where his body was found by deputies.
Brokaw pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter last May for his part in Ingram's death. He was sentenced to 7 years in prison.
Pease is facing 4 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 17th in Forsyth.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Aydt Admits To Being Bogus Nurse:
A Taney County woman facing charges of posing as a registered nurse at Skaggs Regional Medical Center has pleaded guilty.
Lori Aydt, 38, Rigedale, also pleaded guilty last week in Taney County circuit court to charges of fraudulent use of a nursing title. Taney County prosecutor Jeff Merrell, who charged Aydt last October, said the woman worked with bogus credentials from June of 2007 to June of 2009.
Aydt is scheduled to be sentenced on July 8th.
Former President of Hollister Chamber of Commerce Pleads Guilty To Stealing:
Dawn DeckerThe former president of the Hollister Chamber of Commerce has pleaded guilty to stealing from her former employer.
Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell filed stealing charges against Dawn Decker, Blue Eye, in 2008 for stealing $11,000 from the organization in 2006. Decker, who resigned from the Chamber in 2007, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17th.
Decker's sister-in-law, Paula Decker Criss, the former bookkeeper for the Chamber was also charged with stealing from the organization. She is next scheduled to appear in court in May.
Taney County Prosecutor Jeff Merrell filed stealing charges against Dawn Decker, Blue Eye, in 2008 for stealing $11,000 from the organization in 2006. Decker, who resigned from the Chamber in 2007, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 17th.
Decker's sister-in-law, Paula Decker Criss, the former bookkeeper for the Chamber was also charged with stealing from the organization. She is next scheduled to appear in court in May.
Aurora Man At Center Of Debate Regarding Election Ad's:
Glenn Miller
A man from Aurora is at the center of a national debate regarding freedom of speech in political ads.
Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster has asked the FCC to rule if Glenn Miller is an actual candidate in the race for the Senate seat being vacated by Kit Bond.
According to his website, Miller once headed the White Party, is a white supremacist and a former paramilitary organizer. The man raised the ire of broadcasters with his message of hate that he wants run on radio and television stations in this election cycle.
Miller's ads implores whites "to take their country back," disparages Jewish people and nonwhites.
Miller, who has filed candidacy paperwork with the Missouri Secretary of States Office, has not filed any paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and does not have to unless he raises or spends more than $5,000.
The Federal Communications Commission requires broadcasters to give qualified federal candidates access to equal airtime. Legally stations cannot censor or edit political ad's. However, legal experts say that stations can run disclaimers before or after the ads.
The Missouri Broadcasters Association and a Mid-Missouri radio cluster have joined Koster's request for the FCC's opinion.
Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster has asked the FCC to rule if Glenn Miller is an actual candidate in the race for the Senate seat being vacated by Kit Bond.
According to his website, Miller once headed the White Party, is a white supremacist and a former paramilitary organizer. The man raised the ire of broadcasters with his message of hate that he wants run on radio and television stations in this election cycle.
Miller's ads implores whites "to take their country back," disparages Jewish people and nonwhites.
Miller, who has filed candidacy paperwork with the Missouri Secretary of States Office, has not filed any paperwork with the Federal Election Commission and does not have to unless he raises or spends more than $5,000.
The Federal Communications Commission requires broadcasters to give qualified federal candidates access to equal airtime. Legally stations cannot censor or edit political ad's. However, legal experts say that stations can run disclaimers before or after the ads.
The Missouri Broadcasters Association and a Mid-Missouri radio cluster have joined Koster's request for the FCC's opinion.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Murder Charges Dropped In 23 Year-Old Mystery:
Ronald Wrisinger
Prosecutors have dropped murder charges ag ainst an elderly man from Boone County, Arkansas, in the 23 year-old disappearance of his wife and daughter.
Last May a grand jury handed up an indictment against Ronald Wrisinger, 68, Marble Falls, for the murder of his wife, Sherry, and daughter, Johnna. The mother and daughter were last seen on June 6, 1986 in Richmond, MO.
Prosecutors say that the key witness against Wrisinger has died, but they are pursuing other leads in the ongoing investigation.
Last May a grand jury handed up an indictment against Ronald Wrisinger, 68, Marble Falls, for the murder of his wife, Sherry, and daughter, Johnna. The mother and daughter were last seen on June 6, 1986 in Richmond, MO.
Prosecutors say that the key witness against Wrisinger has died, but they are pursuing other leads in the ongoing investigation.
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