‘HOOPIN FOR HOPE’ TONIGHT AT BHS
The Brookfield High School basketball teams will host ‘Hoopin for Hope in the Pink Zone’ tonight, during a varsity doubleheader vs. Palmyra. A variety of games, contest, and fundraising activities will be held during the evening’s festivities, with all proceeds benefiting Linn County cancer victims and their families. The FFA Boosters will also host a special concession stand featuring ribeye steak sandwiches. A reception will follow the game in the BHS Conference Room.
KIRKSVILLE MAN FACES IMMIGRATION ISSUE
A Macon area traffic stop resulted in immigration charges against a Kirksville man. 45 year old Jesus Granillo-Lopez, of Kirksville, was stopped for a registration violation and was found to be driving without a license. An immigration status check revealed that he was in the country illegally. Lopez is now being held without bail on an immigration detainer, awaiting pickup by federal authorities.
FOUR TEENS INJURED IN EARLY MORNING ACCIDENT
Four Moberly teenagers were injured in a one-vehicle accident on a Randolph County road, early this (Friday) morning. 16 year old Cheyanne Bender, of Moberly was the driver of the car. The patrol says she swerved to avoid an animal in the roadway and the car ran off the road and overturned, just before 2:45am. Bender and her three passengers, 18 year old Samantha Bender, 13 year old Dale J. Bender and 16 year old Chelsea Summers, were all treated for minor injuries at Moberly Regional Medical Center.
FIRE DESTROYS BOONVILLE SHELTERED WORKSHOP
A Thursday morning fire destroyed the Unlimited Opportunities Sheltered Workshop in Boonville. Firefighters were called to the building just after 8am, and by the time they arrived, the facility was engulfed in flames. Investigators believe it started in the back portion of the building, which houses a recycling center. Witnesses say there were just a few people in the building at the time of the blaze. No one was injured.
SHOTS FIRE NEAR COLUMBIA MOBILE HOME PARK
The Boone County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a ‘shots fired’ incident at a Columbia mobile home park. Officers were dispatched to Old Miller Road at around 6:15pm Thursday. Deputies found shell casings in the area but no suspects or weapons were found. Witnesses say two male suspects were seen immediately after the gun shots. The investigation is ongoing.
ARSON SUSPECT TIED TO OTHER CRIMES
Columbia Police say a man charged with arson on the University of Missouri campus has been tied to other crimes in the area. Christopher Kelly was charged in September in connection with an early morning fire inside MU’s Ellis Library. Wednesday, a search of his home turned up items linking him to an arson and theft incident at Stephens College. Kelley is free on bond and is due back in court next month.
PRINCETON WOMAN HIT BY ROLLING CAR
A Princeton woman was seriously injured when she was struck by a vehicle as it rolled backwards in a Princeton alley, Wednesday evening. 56 year old Linda J. Bibby, of Princeton, was taken to Wright Memorial Hospital and then life-flighted to St. Luke’s in Kansas City after the accident, which occurred at around 5:20pm. The patrol says she was struck when the vehicle rolled backwards, and she then struck her head when she fell.
TWO KIRKSVILLE MEN CHARGED IN BREAK-IN
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: Two Kirksville men face felony charges in connection with a break-in and assault at an Adair County residence, which occurred last fall. 34 year old Mark Clark is charged with burglary and assault. 32 year old Jesse Gawlik is charged with two counts of burglary and assault. Both are being held on $75,000 dollars cash-only bond. The two suspects are accused of breaking into a home on Highway 6 and assaulting the victim. Court documents indicate Gawlik then returned to the same home the next day. The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment.
THREE SENTENCED TO JAIL IN KIRKSVILLE COURT
Three Kirksville men were sentenced to prison Wednesday in Adair County court.
35 year old Coley Meeks was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to felony charges of receiving stolen property. Investigators say Meeks was in possession of a trailer, stolen lawn mowers and other items.
36 year old Louis Pope was sentenced to 15 years in connection with a domestic assault which also caused a probation violation.
46 year old Darrell Durham was sentenced to 9 years on charges of manufacturing meth and an additional 5 years for violation his parole.
UNIONVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH FORGERY
A Unionville man is charged and an Illinois man is wanted in connection with forged checks which were allegedly passed at a Unionville business. 22 year old Scott Probasco, of Unionville faces three counts of forgery, in connection with checks totaling approximately $700 dollars. 26 year old Ryan Lilly, of Moline, Illinois, is also charged. Authorities are seeking his arrest. Anyone with information on Lilly’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Putnam County 911 Center.
COLUMBIA TEEN CHARGED WITH CHILD ABUSE
A Columbia man faces charges after his 8 week old child was taken to the hospital. 18 year old Jonathan Rainey is charged with child abuse and assault. Officers say Rainey admitted he was the only one at home when the baby girl suffered her injuries. The child was in intensive care at last report, being treated for injuries consistent with blunt force trauma. Rainey is being held on $30,000 dollars bond.
BOONVILLE DRIVER INJURED IN WEDNESDAY CRASH
A Boonville driver was treated for moderate injuries after his car ran off Highway 40 in Boone County, early Wednesday morning. 37 year old old Brandon Worlow, of Boonville, was treated at University Hospital in Columbia after the accident, which occurred at around 5:15am. The patrol says his car ran off the highway, struck a tree and a ditch and overturned several times.
MOBERLY BOOSTER CLUB AUCTION FRIDAY NIGHT
The Moberly Spartan Booster Club will hold its annual Dessert Auction in connection with Winter Homecoming at MHS Friday evening. The event will include a variety of desserts, which can be brought to the school starting at 5pm. Bidding will take place during the boys JV/Varsity basketball doubleheader vs. Hannibal. Winter Homecoming Royalty will also be crowned during Friday night’s festivities at Moberly High School.
FIRE MARSHAL INVESTIGATORS FATAL TRENTON FIRE
The state Fire Marshal’s office has been investigating the cause of a fatal fire, which occurred Monday morning at a Trenton apartment complex. 53 year old Karen Wagner, of Trenton, died of injuries sustained in the fire at the Lampliter Apartments. She was pronounced dead after being taken to Wright Memorial Hospital. Investigators believe careless smoking may have been the cause of the blaze. A final report is yet to be released by the state Fire Marshal.
TRENTON MAN CHARGED WITH STATUTORY RAPE
A Trenton man is charged with statutory rape after an investigation by Trenton Police. 31 year old Jeffrey VanHoozer, of Trenton, was arrested Monday. He is accused in connection with alleged incidents which occurred between September 7th and September 9th of last year. VanHoozer is being held on $20,000 dollars cash-only bond.
KIRKSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH DOMESTIC ASSAULT
A Kirksville man is jailed on a felony charge in connection with a domestic incident. 23 year old Joshua Barrow, of Kirksville, is charged with domestic assault. Court documents allege Barrow struck the victim with a closed fist and then choked the victim. Barrow is being held on $25,000 dollars cash only bond.
DRUG DOG SEARCH AT KHS TURNS UP NOTHING
A planned search of the Kirksville High School and Kirksville Area Technical Center parking lots on Monday turned up no evidence of illegal drugs. The school district, in cooperation with local authorities, held students in their classrooms during the search by a K-9 unit. School officials say the search was not prompted by any kind of tip or any alleged drug activity…it was part of the district’s ongoing efforts to emphasize drug prevention. Officials were pleased that there were no drugs found.
MARSHALL MAN CHARGED AFTER SUNDAY ARREST
A Marshall man faces multiple charges after his arrest on Sunday. The Saline County Sheriff’s Department says 39 year old Billy Joe Bellamy is charged with resisting arrest, property damage and leaving the scene of an accident. Investigators say they believe Bellamy is also involved in the theft of medications from the Golden Oaks Assisted Living Center in Marshall. He is in custody on $20,000 dollars cash-only bond.
COLUMBIA POLICE CONTINUE SHOOTING INVESTIGATION
Columbia Police continue to investigate Monday night’s shooting, which caused non-life-threatening injuries to a 22 year old man. Witnesses say a fight broke out between the victim and a suspect, Monday night, in the 200 block of Lincoln Drive. During that altercation, multiple gun shots were reported, one of which injured the victim. Police say there is no suspect information available and that the victim has not been cooperating with the investigation.
MIDWEST EARTHQUAKE DRILL NEXT WEEK
Emergency management agencies, school district and individuals throughout the Midwest are getting set for the ‘Great Central U.S. Shakeout’, a nine-state regional earthquake drill to be held next week. Officials say more than 390,000 Missourians have all ready registered to participate in the drill, which will be held next Tuesday, February 7th, at 10:15am. That date marks the anniversary of the Great New Madrid Earthquake in 1812, which devastated much of southeast Missouri. During the drill, participants will ‘Drop, Cover and Hold On’ for 60 seconds. You can register to participate and get more information about the drill online at the State Emergency Management Agency’s website, www.sema.dps.mo.gov.
COUNTERFEIT BILLS PASSED IN MOBERLY AND MACON
Two separate incidents involving counterfeit money are being investigated by police in Moberly and Macon.
The Moberly Police Department executed a search warrant at the residence of an 18 year old suspect accused of passing counterfeit bills. Officers say the search turned up computers, printers and computer software related to the counterfeit money. Officers also seized marijuana, drug paraphernalia and other items related to the distribution of a controlled substance. The teen has been charged with forgery, possession with intent to distribute and maintaining a public nuisance. He posted $45,000 dollars bond.
Macon Police have a warrant for the arrest of a 28 year old white female from Topeka, Kansas, after counterfeit bills were recently exchanged in Macon. The victim reports that the suspect asked her to exchange four five dollars bills for a twenty. The bills were later determined to be counterfeit. The Topeka woman remains at large.
KIRKSVILLE BICYCLIST STRUCK BY CAR
A Kirksville man was treated for moderate injuries after his bicycle was struck by a car on Route 3, about seven miles northwest of La Plata, Monday afternoon. 72 year old Robert Schulte, of Kirksville, was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center for treatment after the accident, which occurred at around 3:15pm. The patrol says he was ejected from his southbound bicycle after it was struck by a southbound car driven by 75 year old Billy Otten, of Kirksville.
MURDER SUSPECT TRANSFERRED TO LOUISIANA
A Mississippi man, wanted on first-degree murder charges in Louisiana, and arrested last week in La Plata, was extradited to Louisiana over the weekend. 35 year old Jerry Ronald Graves is in custody in Washington Parish, Louisiana, where he is charged with first-degree murder. Louisiana authorities say the 63 year old murder victim was nearly beheaded in the stabbing incident, which occurred in early November. Graves was arrested in La Plata last Thursday.
COLUMBIA SHOOTING INCIDENT INVESTIGATED
Columbia Police are investigating a shots fired incident in central Columbia, Monday night, which apparently injured at least one man. But, Police say, the victim is not cooperating in the investigation. Police were called to the scene at around 10pm, where witnesses say someone was shooting at a truck. They say a black male in his 20’s suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The incident remains under investigation.
SERIOUS INJURIES AND CHARGES FOR HUNTSVILLE DRIVER
A Huntsville driver was seriously injured and faces multiple charges, after a Sunday afternoon accident on a Randolph County road. 27 year old Douglas Jaecques, of Huntsville, was flown by Staff for Life helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia after the accident, which occurred at around 12:45pm Sunday. The patrol says he was ejected from his eastbound car when it ran off the roadway and overturned. The Randolph County Sheriff’s Department says the driver faces multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated and resisting arrest by fleeing.
TWO HURT IN SNOW-RELATED ACCIDENT
A mother and daughter from Lancaster were both treated for moderate injuries after their car skidded off a snow-covered highway, just south of Lancaster, Friday night. 45 year old Laurie Eads, of Lancaster, was the driver of the car, which was southbound on Route U. The patrol says it slid off the highway and struck a creek bank, at around 6:15pm. Eads and her 18 year old daughter, Laurie Yearns, were both treated at Northeast Regional Medical Center.
KIRKSVILLE MAN CHARGED IN RECENT BURGLARIES
A Kirksville man is in custody in connection with two burglaries near the Truman State University Campus, which occurred over the holidays. 31 year old Antonio Garcia, of Kirksville, is charged with four felonies, including two counts of burglary and receiving stolen property. The two homes, on South Florence and East Randolph Street were broken into on December 20th. Garcia is in custody on $50,000 dollars bond.
WESTRAN SCHOOL HOSTING PUBLIC FORUM
The Westran School District will host a public forum Monday evening, to discuss the possible implementation of a student drug testing program in the district. The meeting will begin at 6pm in the Westran High School band room. If approved, the drug testing program would affect students in 7th thru 12th grades, similar to the existing programs in the Moberly and Cairo school districts. The Westran board and administration is seeking input from its patrons during tonight’s meeting.
FOUR CHARGED IN BOONE COUNTY DRUG BUST
A search warrant served over the weekend netted four drug arrests at a Boone County home. Sheriff’s deputies served the warrant on Locust Grove Church Road, near Midway, Saturday night. They found an active meth lab and a significant quantity of meth, along with drug paraphernalia. 29 year old Nicholas P. Power, 19 year old Jade S. Lewis, 20 year old Michael A. Robinson and 19 year old Haily M. Robinson are each charged with manufacturing a controlled substance.
ARREST MADE IN WEEKEND COLUMBIA FIRE
Columbia Police have arrested a man in connection with a weekend fire in the vacant half of a duplex. They say the fire was reported just after 6pm Saturday, on Hardin Street in Columbia. Investigators say it appeared to start on the stove and caused significant smoke damage. Witnesses say they saw someone running from the empty apartment. John Robert Allen, of Columbia was later arrested and is charged with assault.
JUDGE STEELE RESPONDS TO ALLEGATIONS
Northeast Missouri Circuit Judge Russell Steele has responded to a resolution filed in the Missouri House of Representatives, which seeks impeachment proceedings against the judge. Judge Steele says 2nd District Representative Zach Wyatt is using the Missouri House for politics, rather than the business of the people. Steele says the resolution contains old allegations, which were rejected by voters in 2006 and were also rejected by a Judge’s disciplinary committee and by an Adair County Grand Jury. The House Resolution, which alleges ethical and criminal violations by the judge, is waiting to be assigned to a committee. If passed, it would require Steele’s impeachment by the Missouri Supreme Court. Scroll down for our original story on the filing of that resolution, earlier this week.
LOUISIANA MURDER SUSPECT CAUGHT IN LA PLATA
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: a murder suspect from the state of Louisiana was apprehended Thursday in La Plata. La Plata Police were contacted by authorities in Louisiana’s Washington Parish, regarding a suspect who might be hiding out in La Plata. Officers found the suspect, Jerry Ronald Graves, walking near a La Plata grocery store. He was taken into custody without incident. Graves is being held in the Macon County Jail, pending his transfer to Louisiana, where he is wanted on first-degree murder charges.
MORE ON MURDER CHARGES AGAINST MILAN WOMAN
Minnesota authorities have released more information concerning murder charges filed against a Milan woman. The Sibley County, Minnesota Sheriff’s Department says 29 year old Amy Romero, of Milan, is accused of giving birth to a baby in 2001 and causing the child’s death by taking it to a wooded area and leaving it there. Romero faces multiple felony charges, including first degree murder, manslaughter and neglect of a child. She was extradited to Minnesota this week to face the charges after being arrested at a Milan residence last weekend.
DRUG CHARGE FILED AFTER OVERDOSE DEATH
A Columbia man faces drug charges after a man died of an apparent heroin overdose this week. 36 year old Ellison Hutchison, Jr. of Columbia is charged with distribution of a controlled substance. Prosecutors say the deceased man contacted Hutchison before he was found dead in his Columbia home, on Monday. Text messages between the two are considered evidence in the case.
SUSPECTS IN MULTIPLE THEFTS ARRESTED AT WAL MART
A man and woman from Minnesota, arrested Monday at the Hannibal WalMart store, are suspected of stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise from stores in three states. The pair were arrested after store employees told police they were concealing several items. Officers say the suspects had an enclosed trailer full of flat-screen TV’s, entertainment systems, clothing and other items, believed to be stolen from stores throughout Missouri, Iowa and Minnesota. The two are in custody on $50,000 dollars cash-only bond.
MULTIPLE CHARGES AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE
A Kirksville man faces multiple charges after a high-speed chase through two counties. 27 year old William Brown, Jr. is charged with tampering with a motor vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing, along with multiple traffic offenses. Court documents indicate the incident began when Brookfield Police received a report of a pickup driving recklessly on Highway 36 in Linn County. Highway Patrol began pursuing the vehicle near Chillicothe and the pursuit continued, at speeds of nearly 95 miles per hour, until the pickup ran out of gas in Caldwell County. Troopers say windows had to be broken out after Brown refused to open the doors or roll down the windows of the vehicle and had to be forcibly removed. He is being held in the Livingston County Jail on $50,000 dollars cash only bond. The pickup was reported stolen from the parking lot of a Kirksville business.
MACON WOMAN CHARGED IN THEFT RING
A Macon woman is charged in connection with a Mid-Missouri theft ring. McKenzie Weber, of Macon, faces five felony charges, including forgery and tampering with a motor vehicle. Police accuse Weber of taking more than $5,000 dollars in merchandise from the Columbia Best Buy after paying with a fraudulent check. She is also accused of providing fake IDs to two other suspects involved in the incidents. Those suspects, James Ray Miller and James Broderick, are also charged in the case.
BHS FINANCIAL AID MEETING MONDAY NIGHT
Brookfield High School will hold its annual Financial Aid Seminar Monday evening. Information will be provided for high school juniors and seniors and their parents, regarding financial aid opportunities for higher education, including specific information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms known as FAFSA. The meeting will begin at 7pm Monday in the Brookfield High School Conference room. More information is available at the Brookfield High School Guidance Office.
RANDOLPH COUNTY BRIDGE OPENING FRIDAY
Randolph County officials will celebrate the completion of a Randolph County bridge project with a ribbon-cutting Friday afternoon. The North Sugar Creek Township Bridge replacement project was funded by a Community Development Block Grant, thru the Moberly Special Road District. A ceremony celebrating its completion will be held Friday afternoon at 1:30pm, at the new bridge, located on County Road 1330.
MEXICO MAN IS CHARGED IN ST. LOUIS BANK ROBBERY
A Mexico man is charged with a St. Louis area bank robbery, and is considered a suspect in several others. 35 year old Byron Gullion, of Mexico, is charged in connection with the January 17th robbery of the Jefferson Bank and Trust in Affton. St. Louis authorities believe Gullion is the serial bank robber known as the ‘Logo Bandit’, who is suspected of robbing banks in Warson Woods, Kirkwood, Des Peres, Crestwood and Clayton. Gullion is in custody on $50,000 dollars cash-only bond.
COLUMBIA BURGLARIES INVESTIGATED
Columbia Police are investigating a pair of residential burglaries in north Columbia this week. Officers say no one was home when a duplex on Blue Ridge Road was broken into. A number of items are reported missing from the residences, including several guns, ammunition and electronics. Investigators say the burglars entered by breaking through the back doors. No suspects have been identified as of yet.
MILAN WOMAN WAIVES EXTRADITION TO MINNESOTA
A Milan woman has waived extradition to Minnesota, where she is charged with seven felonies, including premeditated murder. 29 year old Amy Romero, of Milan, was arrested without incident at a Milan residence Friday evening. She remains in custody in Sullivan County, awaiting the arrival of Minnesota authorities this week. The warrant originates from Sibley County, Minnesota.
IMPEACHMENT RESOLUTION FILED AGAINST AREA JUDGE
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: a resolution filed in the Missouri House of Representatives seeks to impeach a north Missouri judge. 2nd District State Representative Zach Wyatt has filed the resolution invoking impeachment proceedings against Circuit Judge Russell Steele, who serves Adair, Knox and Lewis Counties. If passed, Judge Steele would stand trial before the Missouri Supreme Court. The resolution accuses breach of the Code of Judicial Conduct by Judge Steele in a number of cases...most notably, in connection with a 2004 case against the Heartland Christian Academy. Steele has served the 2nd Judicial District since 1997.
INFECTED DEER FOUND IN NORTH MISSOURI
The Missouri Department of Conservation says two free-ranging deer in north Missouri have tested positive for chronic wasting disease. Officials say the two positive tests came from more than 1,000 samples taken from deer killed in the area. Both positive results were from adult bucks taken in Macon County and both were within a few miles of a facility where captive deer have recently tested positive for the disease. Chronic wasting disease is a neurological disorder that affects deer, elk and moose. Experts say there is no evidence that it poses a risk to other livestock, pets or humans.
STICKERS TARGET MISSOURI DEMOCRATIC SENATORS
A handful of Missouri Democratic State Senators have found stickers depicting gun targets, posted near their Missouri Capitol offices. The ‘crosshair’ stickers were found Tuesday afternoon on the Senators’ nameplates. Security officials in the Missouri Capitol are investigating the incidents and security remains tight as the state legislative session continues.
COLUMBIA SHOOTING INCIDENT UNDER INVESTIGATION
Columbia Police are investigating an apparent shooting incident, which occurred Tuesday evening on McBaine Avenue in Columbia. Officers were called to multiple reports of shots fired at that location, just after 5pm. They say at least two suspects fled the scene. The incident caused a lockdown at a nearby day care facility. No injuries have been reported, as Columbia Police continue their investigation.
COLUMBIA MAN CHARGED IN HOME INVASION
A Columbia man faces felony charges after his arrest in connection with the home invasion robbery and assault of an elderly woman. Napoleon Woods was arrested Monday after investigators say they linked a stolen necklace to the suspect. Woods is accused of forcing his way into an elderly woman’s apartment, threatening her with a gun and assaulting her. Police are also investigating at least two other similar incidents.
FORMER MOBERLY RESIDENT CHARGED WITH RAPE
A former Moberly resident is in custody in Kansas, facing charges related to a Moberly sexual assault, which occurred five years ago. 30 year old Jason Dean Roland, who now resides in Haysville, Kansas, is being held on $150,000 dollars bond after being charged with rape and child molestation. Moberly Police say their investigation began with a hotline report of an alleged sexual assault of a child by an adult family member, which occurred about five years ago, involving a female child who was 9 years of age at the time. Investigators say Roland has admitted to the assault. He remains in custody in Sedgwick County, Kansas, awaiting extradition.
KIRKSVILLE WOMAN CHARGED WITH DRUG POSSESSION
A Kirksville woman, on probation for a prior drug arrest, is back in custody on new drug charges. Kirksville Police say 49 year old Sheila Risher, of Kirksville, was arrested after officers were called to her home on a DFS issue. Officers say they found several items that tested positive for meth and several prescription pills at the residence. Risher is charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance, and also faces a probation violation warrant. She’s being held without bail in the Adair County Jail.
LEASE AGREEMENT TERMS FOR MACON MODOT BUILDING
Macon County Economic Development, the City of Macon and MODOT have announced the final terms of an agreement, which will allow the former MODOT District Office in Macon to be used for economic development in the community. Macon County will be given up to ten years to create new jobs equal to the value of the property. Once that goal is reached, the property will be transferred to the county. Space in the building will be leased to companies who are looking to expand or to new businesses in the community. On Shore Technologies is the first business to sub-lease office space there, they expect to move in around the 1st of February. Officials say another Macon area business is looking to rent the garage part of the property.
COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY
Columbia Police are investigating a weekend armed robbery at a Columbia gas station. Officers say a male suspect, armed with a knife, robbed the Midwest Petroleum station on Paris Road, early Sunday morning, and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect is described as a black male, between 5-8 and 5-10, with a slender build. Anyone with information is urged to call the Boone County Tips Hotline.
JAMESPORT WOMAN KILLED IN FRIDAY EVENING CRASH
A Jamesport woman was killed and her husband was seriously injured in a Friday evening accident near Jamesport. 54 year old Twyla Breer, of Jamesport, died in the accident, which occurred at around 8pm Friday. The patrol says a westbound car, driven by her 48 year old husband, Lonnie Breer, failed to negotiate a curve on Route NN, ran off the highway and overturned three times. Lonnie Breer was life-flighted to Heartland Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.
KIRKSVILLE COUPLE HURT IN COLLISION WITH DUMP TRUCK
A Kirksville couple were injured when their car collided with a dump truck on Highway 63 at the Cairo junction, Friday afternoon. 52 year old Randall Dodsworth, of Kirksville, was the driver of the northbound car which collided with a dump truck as it attempted to cross Highway 63. Dodsworth was seriously injured. His passenger, 53 year old Marilyn Dodsworth suffered moderate injuries. Both were taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center. The driver of the dump truck, 57 year old Raymond Maag, of Moberly, was not injured.
EIGHT INJURED IN MILAN ACCIDENT
Eight persons were injured in a collision at Highway 5 and Route E in Milan, Saturday evening. The accident occurred at around 5:30pm. The patrol says a westbound car driven by 41 year old Juan Consuelo, of Newtown, attempted to cross highway 5 and pulled into the path of a southbound car driven by Amanda Eddleman, of Milan. Seven occupants of Consuelo’s vehicle, all from Newtown, were treated for minor to moderate injuries. Eddleman was treated for minor injuries.
MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN MILAN
A woman who was wanted in a Minnesota murder was arrested in Milan over the weekend. The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department says 29 year old Amy Romero was arrested at a Milan area residence Friday evening. Romero was wanted on a warrant from Sibley County, Minnesota, charging seven felony counts, including first-degree murder. Officials say she’ll be extradited to Minnesota this week.
PARIS MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED…DRIVER CHARGED
A Paris driver is charged with drunk driving and assault after his passenger was seriously injured in a Sunday morning accident. 24 year old Kyle Crow, of Paris, was the driver of the car which struck a stop sign and an embankment at the intersection of Highway 15 and Route F, north of Paris. Crow sought his own treatment for moderate injuries, while his passenger, 23 year old Jeremy Mikel, of Paris, was seriously injured…he was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center. Crow was taken into custody as a persistent DWI offender.
TWO HURT IN CENTRALIA COLLISION
Two Centralia residents were injured in a collision on Highway 22 in Audrain County, at around 9 o’clock Sunday morning. 60 year old Deborah Baker suffered moderate injuries while 60 year old Lyle Baker was treated for minor injuries. The patrol says Lyle Baker was driving their eastbound vehicle, ran off the highway and overturned after it skidded on ice and struck a car while attempting to pass.
COLUMBIA MAN CHARGED WITH 2011 MURDER
A Columbia man is charged with a January, 2011 murder, after his indictment over the weekend. Zach Peterson, of Columbia, is charged in the shooting death of James Porter, last January, at a Columbia mobile home park. Court documents say witnesses saw Peterson and Porter get into a vehicle together. Other witnesses say they heard gunshots and saw Porter’s body fall from Peterson’s truck, near the Sunset Trailer Court, on January 18th of last year.
NEW CHARGES AGAINST CARROLLTON MAN
A Carrollton man faces new charges of statutory rape, after authorities obtained the results of a paternity test. The test was conducted on the unborn child of a 12 year old girl, killed in a house fire in late October. Officials say the test confirms that 43 year old Theopolis Johnson III is the father of the child. He now faces two counts of statutory rape in the connection with multiple incidents. Johnson is also charged with attempting to escape custody in December. He is being held on $100,000 dollars bond.
PUTNAM COUNTY MAN SENTENCED ON DRUG CHARGE
A Putnam County man was sentenced to 15 years in prison this week, after pleading guilty to a pair of drug charges. 21 year old Charles Ware, of Unionville, entered guilty pleas to two counts of manufacturing meth within 2,000 feet of a school. Ware was sentenced to 15 years on each count, with those sentences to run concurrently. He was also ordered into a 120-day substance abuse treatment program through the Department of Corrections.
KIRKSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH STEALING
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: A Kirksville man faces a felony stealing charge after an incident at the Kirksville Wal-Mart store. Court documents indicate 53 year old James Willis, of Kirksville, bought a 55-inch flat screen TV and then returned it for a refund a day later. Employees say, when they opened the box, it contained an older TV. Willis later admitted to taking the new TV and returning an old one in the box. He is being held on $25,000 dollars cash-only bond.
TWO MORE DRUG ARRESTS REPORTED IN MOBERLY
Moberly Police have released information on an additional drug bust, which occurred Wednesday morning at a Moberly residence. Officers executed a search warrant in the 500 block of South Fifth Street. They say they seized meth, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a computer, which was reported stolen from Columbia. Two female residents were arrested. The 25 and 30 year old female suspects are both being held on $45,000 dollars bond.
COLUMBIA MAN SENTENCED ON DRUG CONSPIRACY
A Columbia man was sentenced to prison Thursday in connection with one of the largest drug busts in Columbia’s history. 30 year old Eric S. McCauley was convicted in March on a 29-count federal indictment, accusing him of distributing more than 100 kilograms of marijuana in Boone County from 2005 to 2008. A federal judge sentenced McCauley to 23 years in prison.
COLUMBIA DRIVER ARRESTED IN HIT AND RUN
A Columbia driver is charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident after a pedestrian was struck on Paris Road, early Thursday morning. Witnesses say the man had a serious leg injury after being struck by a car near the Quaker Oats Plant, at around 2:20am. Officers say they identified the vehicle, which left the scene of that accident and arrested 25 year old Patrick Temme, of Columbia.
MOBERLY DRUG BUST NETS 12 ARRESTS
A two-and-a-half-year drug investigation netted a dozen arrests in the Moberly area on Wednesday. Four of those suspects were named in a federal indictment for distribution of crack cocaine, including 27 year old Calvin Eugene Smith, Jr. and 26 year old William Carlos Smith, both of Moberly…32 year old Jamie Ronnkke Smith of Columbia and 31 year old Reggie Ray Hayes, of Huntsville. Eight others face state drug charges, including seven Moberly residents…50 year old Roderick Haney, 32 year old Antonio Lamar Hayes, 31 year old James Thomas Woods, 52 year old Brian Keith Smith, 21 year old Jaime Lynn Miles, 41 year old Timothy Midgyett and 51 year old Calvin Eugene Smith Sr….along with 21 year old Donita Rashad Arthur of Columbia. Authorities say nine different law enforcement agencies were part of the undercover operation, including the FBI. They say more outstanding warrants are still pending.
MARSHALL MAN KILLED IN TRAFFIC CRASH
A Marshall man was killed in a collision on Highway 13, south of Osceola in St. Clair County, Wednesday morning. 34 year old Tyree Wyatt, of Marshall, died in the accident, which occurred just before 11am. The patrol says Wyatt apparently failed to yield at an intersection and was struck broadside by an oncoming car driven by a Springfield man. Two occupants of the other vehicle suffered minor injuries.
THREE HURT IN RANDOLPH COUNTY ACCIDENT
Three Moberly residents were injured in a one-vehicle accident, early this morning, on Randolph County Route YY, just east of Moberly. 20 year old Tre Yancey, of Moberly, was the driver of the car, which ran off the highway and overturned. Yancey suffered moderate injuries, a passenger, 20 year old Monya Spiller, of Moberly was also treated for moderate injuries, and another passenger, 19 year old Shynese Alexander, of Moberly, sustained minor injuries. All three were treated at Moberly Regional Medical Center.
KIRKSVILLE MAN FACES DRUG CHARGES
A Kirksville man who faced a misdemeanor assault charge is now in custody on felony drug charges. Authorities say 30 year old Caleb Warwick, of Kirksville, was found in possession of cocaine and also failed a drug test while on probation for a previous assault. Warwick is now charged with felony drug possession. He is being held on $25,000 dollars cash-only bond.
TEEN ARRESTED INSIDE BOONE COUNTY FAIR BUILDING
Boone County Deputies arrested a man who was found inside the Boone County Fairgrounds Coliseum, early Wednesday morning. A search of the facility was prompted by noises heard by a night security guard. 19 year old Steven E. Babcock, Jr. was found inside the building, dressed in camouflage. Officers say nothing was reported stolen. Babcock is charged with burglary.
KIRKSVILLE DRIVER KILLED IN TUESDAY CRASH
A Kirksville driver was killed in a collision involving four vehicles on Highway 11 in Knox County, Tuesday evening. 37 year old Troy D. Lawrence, of Kirksville, died in the accident, which occurred at around 6:30pm The patrol says Lawrence was westbound when his car struck another vehicle in the rear as it attempted to turn into a driveway. Lawrence’s vehicle then traveled across the highway and struck an oncoming car, driven by 54 year old Joseph Fulk, of Memphis, head-on. A fourth vehicle, driven by 26 year old Joseph Shaver, of Brashear, then struck Lawrence’s car in the side. Fulk was flown by Air Evac helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia, with moderate injuries. Shaver was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
CARROLLTON RESIDENTS SERIOUSLY INJURED
Two Carrollton residents were seriously injured when their vehicle overturned on Highway 23 in Lafayette County, Tuesday afternoon. The accident occurred just before 3pm. 45 year old Shelly M. Albercht, of Carrollton, was the driver of the southbound vehicle. 45 year old Timothy Boothe, of Carrollton was her passenger. Both suffered serious injuries when a trailer they were towing jackknifed, causing the vehicle to overturned. Both were taken to Lexington Memorial Hospital for treatment.
CHILLICOTHE POLICE REPORT FOR 01-17-12
Chillicothe Police report several incidents, which have been investigated recently. Officers received reports of ten vehicles broken into and items taken. Gregory Allan Simpson was arrested and some of the stolen property was recovered after officers served a search warrant in the 300 block of Walnut Street. Sean Perry was arrested for domestic assault after a report of a disturbance at a Chillicothe residence. Perry was located near Cameron by the Highway Patrol. Donald Eugene Brown was arrested after an investigation into a report of a sexual assault. Officers are investigating two residential burglaries reported in the 1200 block of Walnut Street and in the 200 block of Polk Street in Chillicothe.
CENTRALIA SUBWAY ROBBED
Centralia Police are investigating an armed robbery at the Centralia Subway restaurant, which occurred Monday night. Officers say a male suspect entered the store just before 10pm, showed a gun and then fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect is described as a white male, about 6 feet tall and 185 pounds. He was wearing a black shirt and blue jeans, a black hat and a white bandana over his face. Anyone with information is urged to contact Centralia Police.
TWO CHARGED IN VANDALIA DRUG BUST
Two Vandalia residents face meth charges after a search warrant was executed by the East Central Drug Task Force over the weekend. The search occurred at a residence in the 300 block of Highland in Vandalia, where officers say they seized half a gram of methamphetamine and the components of a meth lab. 41 year old Daniel Jacob Feather is charged with distribution of meth, his bond is set at $75,000 dollars. 51 year old Kathy Francis Feather is charged with possession of meth, her bond is set at $15,000 dollars.
NIXON’S BUDGET PLAN AFFECTS HIGHER EDUCATION
Higher education will take the biggest hit if Governor Jay Nixon’s proposed budget is approved by legislators. Nixon laid out his proposal during Tuesday night’s ‘State of the State’ address at the State Capitol. He says a $500 million dollar shortfall must be made up in the 2013 budget, as federal stimulus funding ends. Colleges and universities will absorb more than $100 million dollars of that shortfall under Nixon’s plan, that’s about a 12 percent decrease in their funding. Nixon also plans to eliminate 816 state jobs. More on last night’s State of the State address can be found online at www.mo.gov.
TRIAL DATE SET IN MACON COUNTY CASE
A trial date has been set for a Macon County man charged with child molestation. 42 year old Eric Goodyear, of New Cambria, is scheduled for a jury trial in Macon County Circuit Court, beginning on May 24th. Goodyear was charged and later arrested in Virginia, after an investigation by Macon County Deputies. He is accused of a sexual assault involving a 14 year old victim. Goodyear is being held on $20,000 dollars cash only bond.
FORMER KNOX COUNTY DEPUTY CHARGED
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: Former Knox County deputy, 39 year old Howard Smith, of Edina, faces felony bad check charges in Adair County. Officials say a bad check charge becomes a felony if the checks total more than $500 dollars or are written on a closed account. KTVO news is reporting that Smith is also being investigated in Knox County for allegedly taking items from the Knox County Sheriff’s Department and selling them on E-Bay.
BETHANY MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER IN FATAL FIRE
A Bethany man is charged with murder and arson in connection with a fire that killed the man’s 7 year old son last week. 28 year old Tony R. King was arrested and charged Friday by Harrison County authorities. The body of King’s son was found after firefighters battled a blaze at King’s home last Wednesday morning. The cause of death is still being investigated. King is being held on $250,000 dollars bond.
GOVERNOR’S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS TONIGHT
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon will give his annual State of the State Address to Missouri legislators tonight. The address will begin at 7pm at the State Capitol building in Jefferson City. Officials say Nixon’s speech will focus primarily on state budget issue and a $500 billion dollar deficit due to reductions in federal funding. Nixon’s State of the State address will be available live on the internet…go to www.mo.gov.
COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOTS FIRED
Columbia Police are investigating a pair of shots fired incidents over the past 48 hours. Monday evening, officers were called to central Columbia after an argument over a vehicle parked in a private drive apparently resulted in shots being fired by a black male suspect. Sunday night, witnesses say a rolling argument between two carloads of people, in the area of Blue Ridge Road, Brown Station Road and Skyview Road, resulted in shots being fired and a car crash. No injuries were reported in either incident. Columbia Police are investigating.
SCHUYLER COUNTY TEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED
A Schuyler County teen was seriously injured in a weekend accident. 18 year old Megan Rigdon, of Queen City, was taken initially to Northeast Regional Medical Center and then life-flighted to University Hospital in Columbia after the accident, which occurred just before 1:30am Saturday on Route E, just east of Queen City. The patrol says 18 year old Zachary Anderson, of Downing, was the driver of the car which ran off the highway and overturned. Anderson was treated for minor injuries.
TINA WOMAN TREATED AFTER SUNDAY MORNING CRASH
A Tina woman was treated for moderate injuries after her car ran off Route WW in Carroll County, early Sunday morning. 27 year old Sarah I. Edwards, of Tina, was taken to Carroll County Hospital after the accident, which occurred at 5:45am. The patrol says her westbound car ran off the highway, struck a culvert and overturned.
HARRISBURG WOMAN HURT IN COLLISION
A Harrisburg woman suffered moderate injuries in a Friday afternoon collision on Route A, just north of Higbee. 63 year old Arlene Seaman, of Harrisburg, was taken to University Hospital for treatment after the accident. It occurred at 1:45pm. The patrol says a Randolph County Sheriff’s Department vehicle was parked partially in the roadway with emergency lights activated. Seaman was a passenger in a northbound car which struck the parked vehicle. The driver, 60 year old Roy Martin, of Harrisburg, was not injured.
FORMER KIRKSVILLE RESIDENT INDICTED
A former Kirksville resident has been indicted for alleged possession of child pornography. The U.S. Attorney’s Office says 20 year old Alexander T. Ferguson, was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury last week. He faces one felony count of possession of child pornography. The case was investigated by the Kirksville office of the FBI and the Kirksville Police Department. Ferguson is expected to appear in federal court in St. Louis, this week.
CENTRALIA MAN CHARGED WITH CHILD MOLESTATION
A Centralia man is in custody facing child molestation charges. Centralia Police arrested 52 year old Jimmie Lee Cumo last week. The investigation was conducted after information on suspected child abuse was received from the Regional Child Advocacy Center in Columbia. Authorities say the allegations involve two victims who were under ten years of age, but older than five. Cumo is being held in the Boone County Jail on $100,000 dollars bond.
MOBERLY MLK CELEBRATION SET – BREAKFAST IN MACON
Moberly’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration will be held this evening at the 2nd Missionary Baptist Church in Moberly, beginning at 6:30pm. Reverend Wally Landrum of the Coates Street Presbyterian Church will be the featured speaker and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Choir will perform. This morning, a Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship Breakfast is underway, beginning at 7am, at the Macon United Methodist Church.
BROOKFIELD SCHOOL NOT DELAYED FRIDAY
Brookfield school officials want patrons to know that classes are NOT delayed for Friday. Apparently, there is an internet report circulating that indicates classes will be delayed 90 minutes. This report is FALSE. Brookfield R-3 busses are running, at their normal times, this morning and classes will begin as usual.
ARREST WARRANTS ISSUED IN MACON THEFTS
Macon Police have arrest warrants for a Kansas City couple, in connection with a string of thefts at Rock Hill Mechanical Corporation in Macon. 34 year old James Norris, of Kansas City, Kansas, is wanted on three felony charges, including stealing and tampering with a motor vehicle. His wife, 30 year old Jessica Norris, is wanted on charges of tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution. James Norris is the alleged partner of Jimmy Hilt, who was arrested after a theft was interrupted by officers in September of last year. Hilt has all ready pleaded guilty to charges in connection with the incident.
MOBERLY STAND-OFF ENDS WITH ARREST
A late-night standoff in Moberly ended with the arrest of a St. Louis man early Thursday morning. Moberly Police were called to investigate a report of an assault, late Wednesday night. As officers were talking to the victim, the alleged suspect, 26 year old Trey Midgyett, of St. Louis, ran into an apartment and locked the door. He was wanted on an assault warrant in Randolph County and a probation and parole warrant out of St. Louis. The Moberly Tactital Team was activated and entered the apartment at around 1:30am Thursday. Midgyett was taken into custody while trying to hide beneath a pile of clothing.
MISSING TROOPER’S BODY FOUND
The body of a Missouri State Trooper, who disappeared in northwest Missouri floodwaters in August, was recovered Thursday. The patrol says the body of Trooper Fred Guthrie, Jr. was found in a brush pile, within a few hundred yards of where his vehicle was located and the body of his K-9 partner was found, near Big Lake, Missouri. Crews filling a hole in a state highway made the discovery. Guthrie and the dog were apparently swept away by fast-moving floodwaters on August 1st.
SLICK ROADS CAUSE NUMEROUS ACCIDENTS
Thursday morning’s slick roadways caused dozens of accidents around the area, but only a couple involved significant injuries.
18 year old Christian Briegel, of Trenton, was treated for moderate injuries after his car slid on an ice-covered Highway 190, south of Jamesport, at around 8:15am. Briegel was taken to Wright Memorial Hospital for treatment after his car skidded off the highway and overturned.
A Palmyra teenager was seriously injured when her car was struck from behind as she slowed for traffic on Highway 61 in Marion County, at around 6:45am. 17 year old Mackinley Hoerr was treated at Hannibal Regional Hospital.
Two drivers were injured in a collision on Highway 240, in Howard County. The patrol says 20 year old Phillip Wright, of Glasgow, lost control of his vehicle on the slick roadway and it crossed the center line and collided with an SUV driven by 30 year old Chad Wilson, of Fayette, just after 9am. Wright was treated for moderate injuries…Wilson sustained minor injuries.
COLUMBIA PEDESTRIAN SERIOUSLY INJURED
A Columbia man was seriously injured when he was struck by car on Highway 63 in Boone County, early Thursday morning. 54 year old Cory Speaks, of Columbia, was taken to University Hospital after the accident, which occurred at around 4:40am. The patrol says Speaks was attempting to cross the highway on foot when he was struck by a southbound car, driven by an Illinois man.
MODOT WARNS MOTORISTS OF WINTER TRAVEL HAZARDS
Two words that will help you the roadways today...SLOW DOWN!!!!!
It’s not a lot of snow this morning, but it is enough to cause some travel problems around the area. MoDOT reports most major roadways in the area as partially covered, with many secondary roadways completely covered with snow. Blowing snow will continue to cause issues throughout the day today. A winter weather advisory remains in effect until mid-day. Motorists are urged to use extra caution, slow down, and watch for slick spots on area roadways. A number of ‘slide offs’ and minor accidents are being reported this morning…we’ll keep you up to date.
CHILLICOTHE WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY
A Chillicothe woman has pleaded guilty to stealing charges after allegedly embezzling from a Chillicothe business. 52 year old Candace McLuckie faces two consecutive five year prison sentences in connection with the case. She was accused of embezzling nearly $385,000 dollars from a business in the Chillicothe Industrial Park. After her sentencing, McLuckie was transported to the Vandalia women’s prison.
KIRKSVILLE MAN BACK IN CUSTODY
A Kirksville man is back in jail after allegedly violating his bond requirements. 22 year old Adam Greathouse, of Kirksville, is charged with distribution of a controlled substance after allegedly selling two ounces of marijuana to a highway patrol informant. Court documents indicate Greathouse violated his house arrest by leaving his residence without permission and failing to meet with his probation officer. He is being held in the Adair County Jail on $50,000 dollars cash-only bond.
MARSHALL MAN INJURED IN EARLY MORNING COLLISION
A Marshall man was treated for moderate injuries after a collision on Highway 65 in Sedalia, early this morning. 23 year old Scott Campbell, of Marshall, was taken to Bothwell Hospital in Sedalia after the accident, which occurred just before 1am. The patrol says his northbound car slid out of control and crossed the center line, colliding with an oncoming car, driven by a Green Ridge man. That driver suffered serious injuries.
COLUMBIA THEFT SUSPECTS ARRESTED
Columbia Police have arrested three suspects after locating a stolen vehicle that contained forged checks. 33 year old James Miller, 40 year old James Edwards and 28 year old Chrystal Shimek are all in custody on suspicion of forgery and possession of forgery instruments. Police suspect the three are involved in several thefts from vehicles in recent weeks.
MARSHALL WOMAN LIFE-FLIGHTED AFTER ACCIDENT
A Marshall woman was seriously injured in a one-vehicle accident on Highway 41 in Saline County, Tuesday evening. 43 year old Timberley Cochran, of Marshall, was flown by Air Evac helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia. The patrol says a car driven by Cochran’s 15 year old daughter, Mackensie, ran off the highway, struck a ditch and a road sign and overturned. The teenager was treated for minor injuries.
CHILLICOTHE HOSPITAL GETS STATE’S APPROVAL
Chillicothe’s new hospital construction is a ‘go’ after a state panel approved a Certificate of Need for the project on Monday. The panel members unanimously approved the project after a presentation by St. Luke’s Health System, Hedrick Medical Center and Chillicothe City leaders. The $36 million dollar project will now continue through its design and finance processes, headed toward a groundbreaking this spring. The new hospital will be located at Highway 65 and Mohawk Drive, at the north end of Chillicothe.
COLE COUNTY TEEN PLEADS GUILTY TO MURDER
A Cole County judge accepted a teenager’s guilty plea Tuesday, in the 2009 murder of her 9 year old neighbor. 17 year old Alyssa Bustamante pleaded guilty to second degree murder charges, telling the judge she strangled and stabbed the girl, near their neighborhood in St. Martins, in October of 2009. Bustamante was scheduled to go on trial on first degree murder charges later this month. She’ll be sentenced on February 6th.
SCHOLASTIC ANNOUNCES CLOSURE DATE
Moberly Scholastic Packaging Plant has announced that it will close on February 3rd, after being in business for more than 12 years and employing as many as 200 people. The company announced plans to close the plant last year, citing a consolidation of operations into an existing warehouse facility in Jefferson City. Officials say production in Moberly will end on Friday, February 3rd.
COLUMBIA MAN FACES THEFT AND DRUG CHARGES
An employee at the Missouri Orthopedic Institute faces several theft and drug charges after his arrest this week. 23 year old Ryan Skaggs, of Columbia, worked as a custodian at the Orthopedic Institute. Authorities say he faces multiple felony charges, accused of stealing drugs from the facility in order to sell them.
KIRKSVILLE EXIT RAMP CLOSURE PLANNED
The Business 63 ramp to Baltimore Street at the south end of Kirksville will close for two days next week, as MoDOT crews install guard rails. The closure will effect only northbound traffic, and is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, from 9am to 4pm each day. The work is weather dependent and could be rescheduled or delayed.
MINOR INJURY IN LINN COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Laclede woman was treated for minor injuries after her car ran off a Linn County roadway, Monday morning. 23 year old Danielle M. Ehrich, of Laclede, was treated and released at Pershing Memorial Hospital after the accident, which occurred at 9:40am on Enid Drive, just south of Laclede. The patrol says her northbound car ran off the roadway and overturned.
CMU ADDS NEW ASSISTANT DEAN
Central Methodist University has announced the hiring of a new Assistant Dean for its new Central Division. Sandra Wald will oversee CMU’s instructional sites in Macon (in cooperation with MACC), at North Central Missouri College in Trenton and at the Forum Shopping Center in Columbia. She will also manage CMU’s dual enrollment program, which serves more than 2,000 students at 92 high schools around the state of Missouri. Wald is a Mendon area resident who has taught English at CMU since 2008.
KIRKSVILLE CONSERVATION OFFICE HOSTING PROGRAMS
The Missouri Department of Conservation Regional Office in Kirksville is offering another series of educational programs for area kids. Knee High Naturalists, for ages 3 to 5, began Monday. Creature features, for age 6 to 11, will begin with a program on Wednesday afternoon, from 1 to 2pm, and Conservation Keepers a handful of programs for families, will be held one per month, beginning January 21st. All of the programs will be held at the Regional Office in Kirksville. Attendees are asked to register by 4pm on the day before the program. For a complete schedule, to register, or for more information call the Department of Conservation office at 660-785-2420.
COLUMBIA MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULT
A Columbia man faces assault charges after his arrest by Boone County deputies. 43 year old Michael Stanley is accused of assaulting another man with a knife, during an incident at a southwest Columbia home. Officers say a verbal argument between family members apparently escalated, causing one victim to be treated for minor injuries at a Columbia hospital.
HOMELESS MAN FOUND ASLEEP IN HOME
Columbia Police arrested a homeless man Monday, after the man apparently broke into a Columbia home and fell asleep on a couch. Police say the suspect was hanging around a residential neighborhood near I-70 for several hours and had been asked to leave. He apparently broke into a home and took a nap. David Stange is now charged with trespassing and property damage.
FATAL ACCIDENT FRIDAY AT CLARK JUNCTION
A Clark driver was killed when his car pulled into the path of a semi on Highway 63 at the Clark junction, Friday afternoon. 70 year old Robert E. Riley, of Clark, died in the accident, which occurred just before 3pm Friday. The patrol says he attempted to cross 63 and pulled in to the path of the northbound tractor-trailer, driven by 49 year old Bruce Kaschube of Kirksville.
MOTHER/SON INJURED IN SUNDAY COLLISION
Two persons were injured in a Sunday afternoon collision on Highway 63 at the Atlanta Junction. 39 year old Kellie Cottrill, of LaPlata, and her 12 year old son were both treated and released at Samaritan Hospital in Macon after the accident. The patrol says they were southbound on 63 when their car was struck in the side by another vehicle attempting to cross the highway. That driver, 27 year old Lindsey Hudecz, of Atlanta, was not injured.
KIRKSVILLE TEEN ARRESTED AFTER BREAK-IN
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: a Kirksville teenager is in custody after allegedly breaking into the St. Andrews Apartments in Kirksville, early Sunday morning. Authorities say the incident occurred at the senior citizen housing complex at around 2:15am Sunday. 18 year old Andrew Estes, a Truman State University student, is charged with burglary, property damage and assault on a law enforcement officer. He is accused of breaking into the locked building, breaking a window in the lobby area, and breaking down the door of at least one apartment. Witnesses say the suspect’s hands were bloodied in the break-in. No one else was injured. Estes is in custody on $75,000 dollars cash-only bond.
THREE CHARGED IN PUTNAM COUNTY DRUG BUST
A Putnam County drug investigation netted three arrests in Unionville last week. Police say the arrests occurred after a search warrant was served at a Unionville residence. 26 year old Adam McCree and 23 year old Alisha McCree, both of Unionville and 21 year old Mark McCree, of Illinois, are all charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child. The search warrant came after a two-month investigation by authorities.
COLUMBIA DRIVER INJURED IN SATURDAY CRASH
A Columbia driver was treated for moderate injuries after his car ran off Highway 124 in Howard County, Saturday evening. 39 year old Craig Wray, of Columbia, was treated at University Hospital after the accident, which occurred at around 5:20pm. The patrol says he swerved to avoid an animal in the roadway and his car skidded off the highway, struck a fence and overturned.
JAIL DEATH INVESTIGATION CONTINUING
The Highway Patrol continues to investigate the death of an inmate at the Randolph County jail last week. Authorities say 39 year old Shannon Baker, of Moberly, was found dead in his cell on Thursday afternoon. An autopsy was conducted over the weekend. An official cause of death has not yet been released and the investigation continues.
FATAL FIRE IN RURAL RANDOLPH COUNTY
The State Fire Marshal’s Office continues to investigate the cause of a fatal fire in Randolph County, early Thursday morning. Officials say the fire does not appear to be suspicious. One occupant of the Mount Airy home, 79 year old Robert Bert Vanvickle, died of smoke inhalation. The victim’s son-in-law and daughter escaped the fire without significant injury. Firefighters were called to the home, located South of Huntsville on Route 3, at around 3:45am Thursday. Investigators say the home was heated with a wood stove.
MACON COUNTY LEASE ON MODOT BUILDING
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has approved a lease agreement with Macon County regarding the use of the vacated District Two MoDOT facility in Macon. Officials say the lease agreement with option to purchase the building will allow Macon Area Economic Development officials to market the building to increase employment in the community. Final details on the lease plan are still being finalized.
GREAT NORTHWEST DAY AT THE CAPITOL COMING UP
Preparations are underway for dozens of area community leaders to attend the annual Great Northwest Day at the Capitol. It’s coming up January 31st and February 1st in Jefferson City. The focus of this year’s Great Northwest Day legislative priorities will include transportation and infrastructure funding, especially in support of reconstruction of levees damaged by last year’s Missouri River flooding…statewide 9-1-1 wireless emergency services and continued discussions regarding unfunded or underfunded state mandates affecting local counties and communities.
AUXVASSE TEEN INJURED IN HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT
The Highway Patrol is investigating a hit and run accident which seriously injured an Auxvasse teenager, early this (Friday) morning. 16 year old Ashton Stein, of Auxvasse, was taken to Audrain Medical Center after the accident, which occurred at around 12:20am on Callaway County Route B. The patrol says the teen had exited a disabled vehicle on the roadway, when he was struck by an unknown car, which then left the scene.
MORE CHARGES AGAINST MEXICO ATTORNEY
A Mexico attorney, all ready charged in connection with a fatal accident in 2010, now faces charges related to alleged misuse of a credit card from his previous employer. James A. Clampitt was charged Wednesday with three felony counts. Clampitt is awaiting trial on involuntary manslaughter charges, related to a 2010 accident, which killed a man who was riding a lawn mower. In a Thursday news release, Clampitt maintained his innocence and claims that the credit card usage was not a criminal act.
BROOKFIELD TEEN HURT IN BATES COUNTY ACCIDENT
A Brookfield teenager was treated for moderate injuries after a one-vehicle accident on a Bates County highway. 19 year old George Ratje, of Brookfield, was taken to Bates County Memorial Hospital for treatment after the accident, which occurred at around 5:30pm Wednesday. The patrol says Ratje was southbound on Highway 71, when he apparently fell asleep at the wheel of his vehicle and it ran off the highway, struck a ditch and overturned.
CHILLICOTHE TRUCK DRIVER UNINJURED IN FATAL CRASH
A Chillicothe truck driver was involved in a fatal accident in the St. Louis area Wednesday afternoon. 57 year old James Saale, of Chillicothe, was not injured in the accident, but a woman from Wildwood, MO was killed when her car was struck by another vehicle and veered into the path of Saale’s tractor-trailer, on Highway 40 in St. Louis County. The accident occurred at around 3:30pm Wednesday.
HIGHWAY PATROL STUDENT ALLIANCE PROGRAM COMING
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is seeking junior high and high school students from its Troop B area to participate in this year’s two-day Student Alliance Program. The event will be conducted at the Troop B Headquarters in Macon on two consecutive Saturdays, March 17th and the 24th, from 9:30am to 4pm. Interested junior high and high school students of good character may apply to participate by contacting the Troop B headquarters in Macon. The program will be limited to a total of 20 students. Applications must be received in the Macon office by February 17th.
MOBERLY AND PARIS DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS MOVING
The Highway Patrol has announced location changes for Driver Examination Stations in Moberly and Paris, over the next week. Effective Friday, January 6th, driver testing in Paris will be conducted at the Paris City Hall building, located at 112 S. Main Street. Testing is held at that location on the first and third Friday of each month from 9 to 11:15am. Effective next Wednesday, January 11th, testing in Moberly will be held at the Moberly City Hall, 204 Clark Street, every Wednesday from 8:30am to noon and from 12:30 to 4pm.
SUIT ASKS TO STRIKE DOWN STATE SENATE DISTRICTS
A Columbia attorney is asking the Missouri Supreme Court to strike down the newly drawn districts of the 34-seat Missouri Senate. District boundaries were redrawn by a panel of state appellate judges last year to reflect population changes from the 2010 census. Attorney David Brown says some of those boundaries violate the Missouri Constitution. Brown is asking the Missouri Supreme Court to take the case without going through a trial court first, so the court can make a decision before the candidate filing period opens, February 28th.
MACON ARREST AFTER DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE
Macon Police investigated a domestic disturbance over the weekend that resulted in several charges against a Macon man. Officers were called to a home in the 700 block of Coates Street, where the suspect allegedly assaulted a woman and tried to keep two female subjects and a small child in the residence against their will. Officers say the 32 year old male suspect was combative and resisted arrest. He was taken into custody on charges of assault, felonious restraint, endangering the welfare of a child and resisting arrest.
TRENTON RESIDENTS IN CUSTODY AFTER WEEKEND ARRESTS
Three Trenton residents are in custody after their arrest on drug charges over the weekend. The Grundy County Sheriff’s Department says 23 year old Casey Russell and 20 year old Schaline Mabe were arrested at their Trenton residence on charges of endangering the welfare of a child and possession of a controlled substance. They’re being held on $20,000 dollars cash-only bond. 24 year old William Scholl of Trenton is held on $50,000 dollars cash-only bond after being charged with distribution, delivery or sale of a controlled substance.
TRUCKERS CELL PHONE BAN TAKES EFFECT
A federal law banning commercial drivers from using cell phones on the nation’s interstate highways has taken effect this week. The law bans all truck and bus drivers from using handheld or push to talk phones while on the interstate. Both drivers and the companies that employ them face steep fines for violating the new federal law.
STATE TRAFFIC FATALITIES DOWN AGAIN
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says traffic deaths in Missouri dropped by five percent in 2011. There were 773 total traffic fatalities in the state last year, compared with 821 in 2010. It’s the first year since 1949 that less than 800 people died in Missouri traffic crashes. The state’s total fatality numbers have decreased every year since reaching a peak of twelve hundred in 2005.
PREFERRED FAMILY COMMUNITY SURVEY UNDERWAY
Preferred Family in Kirksville is compiling a survey in several area communities, working to better understand the key problems faced by residents in their service area. The anonymous survey can be completed online by residents in a number of north Missouri counties, including Adair, Linn, Livingston, Macon, Mercer, Sullivan, Putnam, Caldwell and Daviess. You can contact Preferred Family in Kirksville for more information…or just click the survey link below.
http://www.kwiksurveys.com/online-survey.php?surveyID=OLKKGM_5540f5a0
GREENTOP WOMAN KILLED IN ACCIDENT ON 63
A Greentop woman was killed when a pickup collided with a semi on Highway 63 in Queen City, Monday morning. 37 year old Joann Vice, of Greentop, died after being taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville. She was a passenger in a pickup driven by 38 year old Terry Anders, of Greentop. The patrol says he failed to stop at an intersection and drove into the side of a northbound tractor-trailer driven by 57 year old William Davis, of Macon. Anders was taken to Northeast Regional with serious injuries. Davis refused treatment for minor injuries.
THREE INJURED IN MACON COUNTY COLLISION
A Sunday morning collision on a Macon County road, just southwest of Atlanta, injured three. The patrol says vehicles driven by 18 year old Brady Bogeart, of Atlanta and 37 year old Leon Shears, of Macon, collided head-on at a hillcrest at around 1:40am. Shears was treated for minor injuries, his passenger, 40 year old Brenda Shears, sustained moderate injuries…both were taken to Samaritan Hospital in Macon. Bogeart was life-flighted to Moberly Regional Medical Center with moderate injuries.
BRASHEAR DRIVER HURT IN SUNDAY ACCIDENT
A Brashear driver was treated for moderate injuries after his car ran off Knox County Route A, just east of Hurdland, shortly after 2am Sunday. 33 year old William Pflum was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center after his car ran off the highway, struck a culvert and overturned. A passenger in the vehicle suffered minor injuries.
COLUMBIA TEEN KILLED IN WEEKEND CRASH
One Columbia teenager was killed and another was seriously injured in an accident on Boone County Route Z, at around 2:30am on New Year’s morning. The patrol says 19 year old Kameron Gwin died when his southbound car ran off the highway and struck a tree. His passenger, 18 year old Danielle Strickland, of Columbia, was treated at University Hospital.
COLUMBIA MAN KILLED IN SATURDAY ACCIDENT
A Columbia man was killed in a Saturday morning accident on Wagon Trail Road, just north of Columbia. The Boone County Sheriff’s Department says 56 year old Donald Chick died when his vehicle ran off the roadway and collided with a tree head-on.
MEXICO MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ACCIDENT
A Mexico man was seriously injured in an accident on Audrain County Route FF, at around 3:40am Sunday. The patrol says 22 year old Travis Charles Poston, of Mexico, was ejected from his eastbound car when it ran off the highway and overturned. He was taken to University Hospital in Columbia.
KIRKSVILLE MAN CHARGED IN DOMESTIC DISPUTE
A Kirksville man is charged with domestic assault and tampering with a victim after an alleged incident on New Year’s Day. Court documents say 34 year old Thomas Featherston, of Kirksville, is accused of arguing with a woman, choking her, banging her head against a couch and floor and preventing her from calling police. He is being held in the Adair County Jail on $25,000 dollars cash only bond.
BOONE COUNTY JAIL ESCAPEE CAUGHT
Boone County authorities took a man in custody after he allegedly walked away from the Boone County Jail Monday night. Officials say 25 year old Michael Allred was a trustee at the jail, and was let outside to take out the trash at around 7:30pm. He allegedly ran north into a wooded area, but was apprehended before 10pm.
FISHER CONVICTION REINSTATED BY APPEAL
The Missouri Court of Appeals has reinstated the conviction of a former Georgia prison escapee accused of shooting five Randolph County law enforcement officers in 1999. 41 year old Donnie Lee Fisher is serving five life sentences in connection with the shootout, which occurred at a Huntsville mobile home in February of ‘99. In November of last year, an appeals court overturned Fisher’s conviction. This week, the Missouri Court of Appeals reversed that decision and reinstated the original conviction. Fisher remains in the Jefferson City Correctional Center, pending any additional appeals.
BUCKLIN TEEN HURT IN MARCELINE COLLISION
A Bucklin teenager was injured in a collision on Highway 5, just north of Marceline, Thursday afternoon. 16 year old Katlin Elam, of Bucklin, was treated and released at Pershing Memorial Hospital after the accident, which occurred just after 4pm. The patrol says she pulled onto the highway from a private drive and into the path of a southbound semi, driven by 63 year old Gerald Spencer, of Purdin. Spencer was not injured.
MEMPHIS TEEN INJURED IN THURSDAY CRASH
A Memphis teenager was treated for moderate injuries after her car ran off Highway 15, south of Memphis, Thursday afternoon. The accident occurred at around 2:20pm. The patrol says 19 year old April Engelbrecht, of Memphis, apparently fell asleep at the wheel and her car ran off the highway, struck a culvert and overturned into a creek. She was taken to Scotland County Hospital for treatment.
FOUR INJURED AS CAR CRASHES INTO HOUSE
Four Columbia residents suffered minor injuries when a car crashed into a house on Garth Avenue in Columbia, Thursday afternoon. Police say the accident occurred just after 4pm. They say a tenant at the home was just learning to drive and panicked as she pulled into the driveway. The car went through a garage door and struck a vehicle parked inside the garage…that car went about three feet into the home. No one in the home was injured…the driver and three passengers were treated for minor injuries.
MACON MUSICIAN TO PERFORM AT CARNEGIE HALL
A Macon High School student has been selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. 18 year old Sarah Bond, of Excello, is a Macon High School trumpet player. She will perform in the ‘American High school Honors Performance Series’, rehearsing with master conductors and performing at Carnegie Hall in February. She submitted an extensive application and a five minute audition recording to win the selection. She thanks Macon area businesses and community members for helping raise the $2,000 cost of the trip.
WARRANT ISSUED FOR MARSHALL MAN
A Marshall man is wanted after an alleged incident at a Marshall residence on Monday. 27 year old Jonnie Grimes is accused of entering the woman’s home and threatening to kill her after an argument over an upcoming court case. Grimes is charged with burglary, domestic assault, felonious restraint, armed criminal action, stealing and tampering with a victim. He is already facing charges of domestic assault in connection with two earlier incidents this year.
CHILLICOTHE POLICE MAKE CHILD MOLESTATION ARREST
A Chillicothe man faces child molestation charges after his arrest by Chillicothe Police this week. Officers arrested Henry Litzelman, Jr. on charges of 2nd degree child molestation. Litzelman was released after posting bond.
KIRKSVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER SURVEY ONLINE
The City of Kirksville is responding to individuals and groups that have expressed interest in the development of a community center in Kirksville. The City is partnering with Truman State University’s Center for Applied Statistical Evaluation to develop and implement a needs assessment for Adair County, to determine the level of interest in a community center and what activities and amenities would be important for such a facility. Adair County residents can get more information and participate in the survey online at http://case.truman.edu/community.asp.
COLUMBIA POLICE REPORTS ANNUAL RASH OF BURGLARIES
Columbia Police are investigating at least a dozen home burglaries in the past week. Many of those incidents are related to homes that have been vacated by University of Missouri students over holiday break. Police say they expect more reports as students return to Columbia over the next couple of weeks. Last year, more than 50 area homes were broken into in late December and early January.
ABSENTEE VOTING OPEN FOR PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY
Absentee ballots are now available for the upcoming Missouri presidential primary, which is set for February 7th. Voters who will be unable to cast your ballots on the 7th can vote absentee in person and your local county clerk’s office, or request a ballot by mail. Also, the deadline to register to vote in the primary is January 11th. Anyone who has moved, changed their name or will turn 18 by the date of the primary can register now by contacting your local county clerk’s office.
HUNTER’S DEATH RULED ‘NATURAL CAUSES’
The death of a hunter, whose body was found in a wooded area near Huntsville on Friday, has been ruled ‘natural causes’. The 56 year old Franklin County man was found dead on property that he leased for hunting. Randolph County Coroner Gerald Luntsford says an autopsy performed over the weekend indicated that he died of a heart attack – no foul play is suspected.
CHILLICOTHE PURSE STOLEN
Chillicothe Police are reminding residents to lock your vehicle after a purse was stolen in a Chillicothe parking lot. Officers were called to the 1100 block of Washington Street after a woman’s purse was taken from the front seat of her unlocked vehicle while she went into a nearby business for just a few minutes. The purse was recovered nearby with several items missing. Police remind motorists not to leave your vehicle unlocked and unattended, even for just a short time.
VETERANS BENEFIT FAIR IN TRENTON NEXT WEEK
A veterans benefit fair will be held in Trenton next week. The fair, for veterans and widows of veterans, is scheduled for next Friday, January 6th, from 9am to 3pm at the Trenton Hy-Vee Store. Active members of the military are also welcome to attend. All services will be provided free of charge. A counselor from the Kansas City Veteran’s Center will be at the Trenton VFW Post that day, as well…from 10:30am to 2pm.
2ND ANNUAL EARTHQUAKE DRILL SCHEDULED
Around 100 Missouri school districts and nearly 150,000 Missouri citizens have all ready registered to take part in the 2nd statewide earthquake drill on February 7th. The 2nd ‘Great Central U.S. Shakeout’ is scheduled for 10:15am on February 7th. More than 400,000 Missourians took part in the first drill, held last April. During the shakeout, participants will be reminded to drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy desk or table and hold on for 60 seconds. You can register at http://shakeout.org/centralus/.
ICY ROADWAYS CAUSE NUMEROUS TUESDAY MORNING CRASHES
Slick roadways caused lots of travel problems in parts of Central and Eastern Missouri Tuesday morning, with numerous accidents reported:
A Columbia driver was killed in a head-on collision on an icy Callaway County bridge Tuesday morning. 55 year old John D. Drew, of Columbia, died in the accident, which occurred at 7:10am on Highway 63 at the Turkey Creek Bridge. The patrol says Drew’s southbound car was struck head-on by an oncoming pickup, which skidded on the ice-covered bridge, traveled through the median cables and into oncoming traffic. That other driver, 57 year old Sharan Keeran, of California, MO, was seriously injured.
A Bellflower driver was seriously injured when her car skidded off Highway 54, in Audrain County, at around 7:30 Tuesday morning. 54 year old Rita Mauer, of Bellflower, was taken to University Hospital for treatment after the accident. The patrol says her car ran off the highway, struck a guardrail and went into a farm field.
Icy roadways caused a one-vehicle accident which seriously injured a Mexico driver at around 7am Tuesday. 21 year old Rushelle Moyle, of Mexico, was taken to University Hospital after her car ran off Route 22 in Audrain County and overturned.
Two New Florence residents suffered moderate injuries when their car slid off Highway 54 in Audrain County, at around 7:30am Tuesday. 61 year old Sammie Finders was the driver of the car…25 year old Lance Penn was his passenger. Both were treated at University Hospital after the car ran off the highway and overturned several times.
A Columbia man was treated for moderate injuries after he lost control of his car on Callaway County Route f, just after 8am Tuesday. 50 year old Nazim Khan, of Columbia, was treated at University Hospital after the accident. The patrol says his car ran off the roadway and struck a creek embankment.
HUNTSVILLE COUPLE INJURED IN ACCIDENT
A Huntsville couple were both treated for moderate injuries after their can ran off I70 in Callaway County, Monday night. The patrol says 67 year old James Baumann, of Huntsville, was the driver of a car which slid on wet pavement and ran off the highway, struck an embankment and overturned, just before 11pm. Baumann suffered moderate injuries, along with his wife, 64 year old Judy Baumann. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.
COLUMBIA DRIVER INJURED IN ACCIDENT
Wet pavement played in a role in a one-vehicle accident which injured a Columbia man, Monday night. The patrol says 26 year old Jared Hitzhusen, of Columbia, was southbound on Route 54 in Callaway County when his car slid off the wet highway and struck a tree, just after 10pm. He was treated for moderate injuries at University Hospital in Columbia.
SALISBURY DRIVER HURT IN CRASH
A Salisbury driver was treated for moderate injuries after a Monday evening accident on Highway 763, just north of Columbia. 20 year old Shelby Clark, of Salisbury, was taken to Boone Hospital in Columbia for treatment after the accident. It occurred at around 5:30pm. The patrol says she swerved to avoid a car which had pulled out in front of her and her vehicle struck a concrete curb.
KIRKSVILLE MEN CHARGED IN ATV THEFT
Two Kirksville men spent the holiday weekend in jail after being accused of stealing an ATV. 19 year old Charles Longcor and 21 year old Justin McFarland, both of Kirksville, are each charged with tampering with a motor vehicle. Court documents indicate the two were arrested after police identified an ATV in their possession as one that was reported stolen on December 13th. Both suspects remained in custody in the Adair County Jail, at last report, on $25,000 dollars cash-only bond.
SHERIFF WARNS OF COMPUTER SCAM REPORTS
The Randolph County sheriff is warning residents of scams involving social media websites, which have been reported recently. Sheriff Mark Nichols says the reports indicate individual social media accounts have been hacked and then used to obtain personal information on friends of that individual. Nichols is also seeing another round of complaints from individuals who are contacted by suspects posing as a friend or family member, saying they can receive a large sum of money by making a small investment. Nichols warns residents to be cautious on your computer, and keep your eyes open for these types of scams.
KIRKSVILLE APARTMENTS BURGLARIZED
Kirksville Police are investigating a string of burglaries on Dodson Street in Kirksville. Officers say a total of ten units of an apartment complex were broken into. The incident was reported on Wednesday. The owner of the complex indicates that many of the residents are Truman students who are gone on holiday break. Anyone with information is urged to contact Kirksville Police or the tips hotline at 627-BUST.
TEENS CHARGED IN THEFT OF CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Three Bevier teens are charged with stealing Christmas ornaments from several homes and churches in the area. The Macon County Sheriff’s Office says the thefts were reported last weekend and involved several locations in Bevier and at least one in Macon. The stolen items, including several ‘Baby Jesus’ dolls were recovered this week. 18 year old Brandon Gaw, 17 year old Hilary Voss and a juvenile suspect, all from Bevier, were arrested and charged.
REWARD OFFERED FOR MOBERLY MAN
The Moberly/Randolph County CrimeLine is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of Jason Nathanial Farris. Farris is described as a 28 year old white male, about 6-1 and 200 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He is wanted on two active warrants…for burglary and for failure to appear on two counts of driving while revoked. Authorities say Farris has contacts in the Randolph, Howard, Boone and Cooper county areas. Anyone with information should contact the Randolph County CrimeLine at 269-TIPS.
FAMILY SERIOUSLY INJURED IN THURSDAY WRECK
Four members of a Russellville family were seriously injured in a one-vehicle accident on Route 87 in Moniteau County, Thursday evening. The patrol says a car driven by 55 year old Carol Oropeza ran off the highway and struck a fence and a tree. She was seriously injured, along with three passengers, age 12, 15 and 16. All four were taken to St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City.
THURSDAY NIGHT EXPLOSION INVESTIGATED
Boone County authorities are investigating the explosion of a small trailer at a rural Boone County home Thursday night. The 12 foot camper, located off Willis Road, exploded at around 8:30pm. Officials say no one was in the camper at the time. They’re trying to determine exactly what caused the explosion.
INFANT FORMULA PULLED AFTER MISSOURI DEATH
Walmart officials have confirmed that it has pulled a newborn formula powder from its shelves, after the death of a newborn infant in Lebanon, MO. 12.5 ounce cans of Enfamil infant formula with lot number ZP1K7G were pulled because the 8 day old child was drinking it prior to developing a rare bacterial infection. Walmart officials acknowledge that the formula has not been confirmed as the cause of the child’s infection. They say they’re pulling the product as a precaution, while the FDA and CDC investigate the potential connection.
AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING CAIRO INCIDENT
Randolph County authorities are investigating an incident in Cairo which occurred Tuesday night. They say a man apparently brandished a large knife and broke out windows of a truck, with people inside the vehicle. There were some minor injuries due to broken glass. Deputies are investigating the incident, which apparently began with a verbal altercation at a Moberly restaurant. No arrests have been reported.
HANNIBAL MEN CHARGED WITH SCAMMING ELDERLY
Two Hannibal men are charged with a tree-trimming scam, which cost two elderly mid-Missouri residents nearly $4,000 dollars, and officials say the two may have committed the scam in other area counties. 32 year old Walter L. Gohaller and 43 year old Michael Rickey were arrested in Maries County, after evading law enforcement for nearly five years. Gollaher is wanted on both Monroe and Ralls County charges while Rickey is also wanted in Kansas and Illinois. Anyone who may have been scammed by the suspects is urged to contact local law enforcement.
CHRISMAN NAMED NEW K-REDI JOB CREATION DIRECTOR
Kirksville Regional Economic Development has hired a new head of job creation for the area. K-REDI announced Wednesday that Carolyn Chrisman will fill the vacancy being created by the retirement of Phil Tate. Chrisman is resigning from a position at the Kirksville Middle School and will also resign from the Kirksville City Council. She’ll begin her duties at K-REDI on January 1st.
HOLCER NAMED TINA-AVALON SUPERINTENDENT
The Tina-Avalon School District has announced the hiring of a new superintendent for the district. Jana Holcer, who has been serving as Tina-Avalon principal, has accepted a two-year contract as superintendent, beginning July 1st of next year. Meanwhile, the Superintendent of the Milan C-2 Schools has announced his retirement. Bill Lewis will retire after 8 years with the Milan School District, effective July 1st.
COLUMBIA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ROBBERIES
A Columbia man has pleaded guilty to robberies at a Columbia Pharmacy and two Missouri banks. 28 year old Louis Patti, of Columbia, entered his plea Wednesday in federal court. He was accused of robbing Flow’s Pharmacy in Columbia in March and Boone County National Bank in Columbia and a North Kansas City Bank in May. Patti could face up to 20 years in prison. His sentencing date has not been set.
COLUMBIA MAN DEAD AFTER TUESDAY ACCIDENT
A Columbia man was killed in a Tuesday morning accident in Pike County. 54 year old Preston Shepherd, of Columbia, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The patrol says he suffered an apparent medical condition and lost control of his vehicle, which struck a drainage ditch and overturned. Shepherd’s 84 year old mother, from Eolia, was hospitalized with moderate injuries.
BROOKFIELD SCHOOL DRUG SWEEP NETS ARRESTS
Three Brookfield High School students were arrested on misdemeanor drug charges after a search of the Brookfield School campus on Monday. The Brookfield Police Department, along with officers from the North Missouri Drug Task Force and multiple other area agencies, and two K9 units, searched the school parking lots and buildings, beginning at around 9:30am Monday. Three students were charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession. Officials say the search was a response to recent incidents involving drug possession on school grounds, as well as feedback from students of the district.
KHS LOCKDOWN AFTER GUN FOUND IN VEHICLE
Kirksville High School was briefly locked down Tuesday morning after a school resource officer found a loaded rifle in the front seat of a vehicle, parked between the school and the Kirksville Area Technical Center. Officials say the officer was investigating a parking complaint when he found the weapon. The owner of the vehicle was determined to be a visitor to the Technical Center, who had inadvertently left the weapon in his vehicle.
KNOX COUNTY TEEN PLEADS NOT GUILTY
A Knox County teen, charged in connection with a shooting incident over Thanksgiving weekend, pleaded not guilty Tuesday. 18 year old Tyler Treece, of Edina, is charged with assault, endangering the welfare of a child and shooting at a motor vehicle. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. A 14 year old victim suffered a gunshot wound to the chest in the incident. The court rejected a bond reduction request. The teen remains in custody on $250,000 dollars bond.
KIRKSVILLE DRIVER INJURED IN ACCIDENT
A Kirksville man was treated for moderate injuries after his car ran off Highway 11, southwest of Kirksville, Tuesday morning. 56 year old Roy D. Johnson was treated at Northeast Regional Medical Center and then transferred to University Hospital in Columbia after the accident. The patrol says his northbound car ran off the highway and struck an embankment.
BODY FOUND IN COLUMBIA IDENTIFIED
Columbia Police have identified a body found near the MKT trail Tuesday morning, and have classified the death as a homicide. A jogger called authorities after finding the unresponsive male near the end of White Oak Lane, shortly after 9:30am Tuesday. The victim has been identified as 44 year old Timothy Ray Jones. Investigators say he suffered lacerations to his upper body. An autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause of death. Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact police or the anonymous tips hotline.
MAN ARRESTED AFTER STANDOFF AT AUXVASSE HOME
A suspect was taken into custody late Tuesday night after a three hour standoff at an Auxvasse home. Police were called to the scene for violation of a restraining order. When officers arrived, they say the suspect told them he was armed and barricaded himself in the home. After a three-hour standoff, the man was taken into custody. No one else was inside the home and no weapon was found.
BURGLAR STEALS SAM’S CLUB JEWELRY
Columbia Police are investigating a burglary at the Columbia Sam’s Club store. Late Monday night, someone entered the building by breaking two glass windows on the north side of the building. The suspect then apparently broke a glass display case and took an unknown quantity of jewelry. Police are continuing the investigation.
TWO FACE DRUG CHARGES AFTER SEARCH WARRANT
Two Randolph County residents face drug charges after a weekend investigation by Moberly Police, the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. 39 year old Jerry Dale Fifer is being held on $100,000 dollars bond after being charged with distribution of a controlled substance and maintaining a public nuisance. 45 year old Sandra Annette Hackett is charged with possession of a controlled substance, endangering the welfare of a child and maintaining a public nuisance, her bond is set at $45,000 dollars. Investigators say they executed a search warrant on a rural Moberly home on Friday. During the search, officers say they seized meth, marijuana, cash, items used in packaging and distributing drugs, along with a number of stolen power tools and electronic equipment. Prosecutors say Fifer is all ready on parole for burglary and aggravated stalking.
SCHUYLER COUNTY COLLECTOR PLEADS GUILTY
The former Schuyler County Collector has pleaded guilty to federal mail fraud charges. Former collector Kathy Roberts entered her plea in federal court in St. Louis on Monday. She was charged with mail fraud in connection with cash county tax payments which were allegedly diverted for her personal use, totaling approximately $550,000 dollars. She is scheduled for sentencing on March 22nd. Roberts also still faces state charges in connection with the case.
PAIR OF ARMED ROBBERIES INVESTIGATED
Columbia Police are investigating a pair of similar armed robbery reports, which occurred within a mile of each other Saturday evening. Officers say a pizza delivery driver was robbed at gunpoint in the 900 block of Jewell Avenue. A few hours later, another victim was robbed by an armed man in the 100 block of McBaine Avenue. Police say the suspect’s description is similar in the two incidents, a black male, around 30 year old, 6-feet tall and a slender build. The incidents remain under investigation.
BOMB THREAT AT MEXICO WAL MART
The Mexico Wal Mart Store was briefly evacuated Monday after a bomb threat was received. Store officials say the received the threat via telephone, at around noon, and followed their procedures, notifying Mexico Police and evacuating the store. A search of the store revealed nothing. Employees and shoppers returned to the store within about 30 minutes. Mexico Police are investigating.
KIRKSVILLE TWINS FACE METH CHARGES
A pair of Kirksville twins are accused of manufacturing meth. The Adair County Sheriff’s Department says the 39 year olds, Kevin Van Dusen and Kirk Van Dusen, were arrested Friday, after deputies attempted to serve an arrest warrant on another individual at a residence on Highway 6 East of Kirksville. They say a strong chemical odor led them to observe the two men attempting to manufacture meth. Both are in custody on $75,000 dollars cash-only bond.
CHILLICOTHE POLICE RECOVER STOLEN VEHICLE
A Chillicothe man was arrested after officers recovered a stolen vehicle over the weekend. Tyler Allen Steffen was taken into custody after police investigated a suspicious vehicle parked in the 400 block of Webster Street in Chillicothe. Their investigation determined that the vehicle was reported stolen from Shawnee, Kansas and the license plates belonged to another vehicle, reported stolen from Liberty. Steffen is also accused of possession of a controlled substance.
SERIOUS INJURY IN CAR–SEMI COLLISION
A Paris driver was seriously injured when his car collided with a tractor-trailer on Highway 24 in Moberly, early Saturday morning. A Moberly Police report says 78 year old Donald Ragsdale, of Paris, was westbound, just before 6am Saturday, when his car struck the semi, which had slowed to turn off the highway. Officers say Ragsdale was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center and then transferred to University Hospital in Columbia, where he was reportedly in critical condition.
MOBERLY WOMAN INJURED IN SUNDAY ACCIDENT
A Moberly woman was treated for moderate injuries after a Sunday evening collision on Highway 24, east of Moberly. 33 year old Amanda E. Simpson was taken to Moberly Regional Medical Center after she apparently attempted to turn onto the highway and into the path of an oncoming car, driven by 16 year old Trevin J. Guthrie, of Moberly. Guthrie escaped without injury.
THREE HURT IN MARCELINE AREA CRASH
Three Salisbury residents were treated for minor injuries after a Saturday afternoon collision on Route ZZ, southeast of Marceline. 47 year old Cole Howard, 26 year old Damitrik Jackson and 5 year old Eli Jackson, were all treated and released at Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield after the accident, which occurred at around 3:15pm. The patrol says 17 year old Lucas Wright, of Marceline, apparently pulled onto the highway and into the path of their southbound vehicle.
TWO MORE COLUMBIA SUSPECTS ARRESTED
Two more suspects face charges in connection with a string of Columbia area robberies. Officers arrested 20 year old Bristle Haynes and 18 year old Unrica Parrow, both of Columbia. They are charged in connection with at least one of 13 robberies, which have been connected to Jessica Harris, who was arrested last week. Investigators say the three women were roommates and all three have been connected to at least one of the robberies. The investigation is continuing.
MOBERLY SCHOOL PRESENTS RENOVATION PLANS
Patrons of the Moberly school district got their first look at the details of the upcoming school renovation and construction project, during a public meeting Thursday night at the MHS Auditorium. The architect and construction company offered a virtual walk-through of the school improvements. Ground-breaking is expected to be held in March of next year. Anyone who was unable to attend the public meeting can view a power point presentation on the Moberly School website.
POST OFFICE CLOSURES DELAYED
The U.S. Postal Service has announced that it will delay the closure of a list of small, rural post offices for five months, allowing more time to study alternatives to the cost-saving measure. The Postal Service had submitted a list of dozens of offices that would be closed under a reform of the agency, including several small offices in our area. Public outcry over the proposal has prompted officials to delay any closings until at least May 15th of next year.
SPAID BOND REDUCTION DENIED
A Macon woman, facing numerous sex-related felony charges will remain behind bars. 34 year old Christina Spaid was arraigned Thursday on felony charges of statutory sodomy, use of a child in a sexual performance and endangering the welfare of a child, along with a misdemeanor count of unlawful sex with an animal. A reduction in bond was denied by the judge. Spaid will remain behind bars on $150,000 dollars bond, pending a preliminary hearing on January 19th.
BANK ROBBERY SUSPECTS TO STAND TRIAL
Three north Missouri residents are set to go to trial on bank robbery charges in the state of Texas. 25 year old Jeffrey Heckman and 23 year old Jacob Norris, both of Macon, and 23 year old Alexia Baker, of Shelbyville, will be tried on bank robbery charges in Waco, Texas, beginning January 30th. They’re accused of robbing a credit union in Temple, Texas. The three are also accused of robbing the Merchants and Farmers Bank in Columbia in July. Those charges are pending until the trial in Texas is completed.
BROOKFIELD R-3 PUBLIC MEETING CANCELLED
The Brookfield R-3 School District has announced that a public meeting scheduled for Thursday evening, to discuss funding issues for the district, has been cancelled. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date.
FIVE CHARGED IN FEDERAL METH INDICTMENT
Five Sullivan County residents face federal meth charges after being indicted by a federal grand jury. 34 year old Bradley Frazier, 22 year old Megan Pauley, 26 year old Dustin Nickell and 44 year old Lorrie Dolan, all of Milan…and James Eddy, of Pollock, are all charged in a 15-count indictment. The five are charged with conspiracy to manufacture meth and possession of pseudoephedrine, a meth precursor. The illegal activity allegedly occurred in Sullivan County between February of 2010 and October of 2011.
WOMAN ARRESTED AT KIRKSVILLE RESTAURANT
The Adair County Sheriff’s Department assisted Federal Marshals in arresting an Asian female, wanted on immigration charges, in Kirksville on Tuesday. 30 year old Xiu Feng Jiang was taken into custody after information led deputies to Kirksville’s Mongolian Restaurant on North Baltimore. She was wanted on a U.S. Immigration detainer from 2003, which allegedly involved a stolen passport.
FEDERAL FUGITIVE ARRESTED IN HIGBEE
A federal fugitive was apprehended in Higbee on Tuesday. U.S. Marshals arrested Steven Judy, a transient who was wanted on a federal probation violation. Randolph County Sheriff’s Deputies assisted in the arrest, which came after a brief standoff at a Higbee area residence. No one was injured in the incident. Judy was transported, in federal custody, to St. Louis.
MOBERLY SOLDIER DEAD AFTER MURDER-SUICIDE
A Moberly family is mourning the death of a soldier in an apparent murder-suicide. Authorities in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, say former Moberly resident, Staff Sgt. Seth R. Andrews was found dead in his residence, along with his 22 year old wife. Investigators believe Andrews shot his wife and then turned the gun on himself. Andrews was a decorated soldier who had recently returned from a six-month deployment in Iraq.
COLUMBIA ROBBERY SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
Columbia Police have arrested a suspect who is being connected to as many as 13 recent robberies in the area. 23 year old Jessica Harris, of Columbia, was taken into custody after police stopped her van on Brown School road. Investigators say the van was similar to a vehicle seen in surveillance videos in a recent string of robberies at gas stations and convenience stores. Officers say Harris confessed to committing several of those robberies during questioning.
RAPE CHARGE AGAINST CARROLLTEEN DROPPED
Prosecutors have dropped a statutory rape charge against a Carrollton teen. 17 year old Theopolis Johnson, III, was charged in October in connection with an incident involving a 13 year old girl. Prosecutors say new information in the case caused the charge to be dropped. The teen’s father, Theopolis Johnson, II, remains in custody on a similar charge.
CHILLICOTHE DRUG ARREST - THEFT INVESTIGATION
Chillicothe Police have announced another arrest in an ongoing drug investigation. Officers arrested Lowell James Grimm on charges of distribution of a controlled substance. The arrest was made at his residence in the 1400 block of Maple Street in Chillicothe. Police are also investigating the theft of a seed drill belonging to the Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation District, reported missing from their lot this week. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Department at 646-2121.
MACON TRAFFIC STOP NETS DRUG ARRESTS
A recent traffic stop by Macon Police resulted in a pair of drug-related arrests. Over the weekend, officers stopped a vehicle in the 300 block of Pine Crest Drive. After a search of the vehicle, the driver, a 31 year old black male, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. It was determined that the passenger, a 27 year old black male, had an active warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.
THREE ARRESTED AFTER I-70 TRAFFIC STOP
A Tuesday morning traffic stop on I-70 in Saline County netted three arrests after officers found around 41 pounds of marijuana inside a luggage compartment. The highway patrol says three occupants of the vehicle, two from Pennsylvania and one from Mississippi, were each arrested for second degree drug trafficking.
SCHUYLER COUNTY AUDIT REPORT RELEASED
Missouri State Auditor Tom Schweich has released the results of an audit of the Schuyler County collector’s office. Longtime collector Kathy Roberts faces both state and federal charges in connection with more than $500,000 dollars in missing county funds. In the audit, the overall performance of the collector’s office is rated as ‘poor’. The report cites a lack of oversight and failure to segregate duties, allowing the missing funds to go undetected. Roberts is scheduled to appear before a federal court on Monday.
HOWARD COUNTY MURDER SENTENCING
A man, convicted a second time for a 2007 Howard County murder, will be sentenced to life in prison. Charles O’Neal was in court Tuesday, when a judge told him he’ll sentence him to life for the killing of his ex-girlfriend’s mother, Dawn Kelly. O’Neal had been sentenced to 55 years in prison after pleading guilty to the crime in 2008, but a court ruled ineffective counsel and granted a new trial. O’Neal’s current life sentence will be confirmed on Monday, pending another appeal.
MU NAMES NEW SYSTEM PRESIDENT
A Rock Bridge High School graduate and Mizzou Business School alum has been named the University of Missouri’s 23rd system president. 53 year old Timothy M. Wolfe got the appointment on Tuesday, ending a year-long search by the University curators. Wolfe has recently served as Novell’s president of the Americas and as a 20 year IBM executive. Wolfe will officially begin his duties on February 15th.
MAJOR DRUG INVESTIGATION NETS ARRESTS
The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department and Chillicothe Police have been cooperating on an extensive meth lab investigation, resulting in a number of arrests over the past week. Last Tuesday, 53 year old Steven Mack Powers, of Avalon, 44 year old David Charles Newsome, of Chillicothe and 30 year old Jeneva Carol Burton, of Chillicothe were arrested on various drug charges include meth manufacturing. Last Thursday, 41 year old Charles David Parker, of Dawn was arrested on various charges, including meth manufacture, child endangerment and animal abuse. On Friday, 26 year old Jessie James Allen, of Joplin, 21 year old Amanda L. Parks of Carl Junction and 54 year old Gay N. Owens of Chillicothe were also arrested on drug charges. Officers say, during the course of the drug investigation, evidence has led investigators into multiple burglary cases in both Livingston and Carroll Counties. The Carroll County Sheriff’s Department is now assisting in the investigation. Additional charges and arrests are pending in the case.
STUDENTS INJURED AS SCHOOL BUS COLLIDES WITH CAR
A collision involving a Kirksville school bus caused minor injuries for several students Monday afternoon. It occurred at around 3pm, at the corner of Jefferson and Halliburton Streets in Kirksville. Officers say the bus, driven by 57 year old Thomas May, of LaPlata, failed to yield at the intersection and pulled into the path of a car driven by 25 year old Erin Harpenau, of Kirksville. 27 students were on the bus at the time of the accident…six of the students, all from Kirksville, were treated for minor injuries. Harpenau was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
MURDER CHARGES FILED AGAINST SHOOTING SUSPECT
A former Dent County Sheriff’s Deputy, arrested after a shootout at a Jefferson City Hotel over the weekend, has been formally charged with first degree murder in connection with the shooting death of his ex-girlfriend and her current boyfriend. 44 year old Marvin Rice, of Salem, is charged in the case. The shootings occurred Saturday evening in Salem, after a child custody dispute between the former couple. Investigators say, after shooting the couple, Rice took his two year old son to his current wife’s house and then fled authorities. They say he was traveling around 100 miles per hour when he entered Jefferson City, before a spike strip disabled his vehicle. He then entered the Capital Plaza Hotel and exchanged gunfire with officers before being shot and seriously wounded. Rice is listed in good condition at University Hospital in Columbia.
ATLANTA MAN ENTERS ALFORD PLEA
The former manager of Novelty Feed and Seed Company has entered an Alford Plea in connection with charges of stealing from the business. Michael Combs of Atlanta entered the plea last week. Under the Alford Plea, Combs does not admit guilt, but does acknowledge there is enough evidence to likely convict him. He was accused of using business funds to purchase personal items and pay personal expenses while managing the business.
BOONVILLE WOMAN INJURED IN ACCIDENT
A Boonville driver was treated for moderate injuries after a Monday night accident on Highway 179 in Moniteau County. It occurred at around 8:15pm, just south of Route EE. 25 year old Rebecca Simmons, of Boonville, was taken to University Hospital in Columbia, with moderate injuries, after the accident. The patrol says her northbound pickup ran off the highway and overturned down a steep embankment.
CHILD LIFE-FLIGHTED AFTER SUNDAY ACCIDENT
An 8 year old child was life-flighted to Columbia with serious injuries after a Sunday afternoon accident on Highway 5, just south of Unionville. 31 year old Melanie Goddard, of Galt, was the driver of a northbound van, which ran off the highway and overturned several times, at around 12:30pm Sunday. Goddard’s 8 year old daughter was life-flighted to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries. Goddard was treated for moderate injuries at Putnam County Memorial Hospital.
MERCER MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED
A Mercer driver was seriously injured when his SUV ran off Mercer County Route M, Sunday morning. 28 year old Howard Henry was treated at Harrison County Memorial Hospital after the accident, which occurred just after 6am Sunday. The patrol says Henry was ejected from his car when it ran off the highway and struck a tree.
MILAN MAN TREATED AFTER FRIDAY ACCIDENT
A Milan man was treated for moderate injuries after his car ran off Sullivan County Route OO, Friday morning. 48 year old George Renequez, of Milan, was treated at Sullivan County Memorial Hospital after his car slid on a snow-covered roadway and overturned into a ditch.
KIRKSVILLE MAN FACES TEXAS DRUG CHARGES
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: A Kirksville man was taken into custody over the weekend on a drug warrant out of Texas. 46 year old Darron Dean, of Kirksville, was pulled over for a traffic stop when Adair County deputies learned of an outstanding warrant from Dallas County, Texas, charging felony possession of marijuana. Dean is being held in the Adair County Jail on $10,000 dollars bond.
TWO CHARGED AFTER MOBERLY SEARCH WARRANT
Two Moberly residents face drug charges after their arrest last week at their Moberly home. 24 year old Christopher Gravitt and 21 year old Tasha Dixon are charged with distribution of a controlled substance. They were arrested Thursday night after officers allegedly found more than two pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and cash in their residence. Three children, age 7 and under, were removed from the home by social services.
MORE INFO ON JEFFERSON CITY SHOOTOUT
Authorities are still piecing together details about a former south Missouri deputy who is accused of killing his ex-wife and her boyfriend and leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase, which ended with a shootout at a Jefferson City Hotel. The double homicide occurred in Dent County, Saturday evening. 44 year old Marvin Rice, of Salem, a former Dent County Sheriff’s Deputy allegedly fled the scene with a two year old child, dropped the child off with relatives, and then led police on a chase which ended near the Capital Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City. Rice exchanged gunfire with officers there and was taken into custody after being shot and injured. More details on the investigation will be released Monday.
HARRISBURG WOMAN INJURED IN SUNDAY COLLISION
A Harrisburg woman was treated for moderate injuries after a Sunday evening collision on Route 124 in Boone County. 28 year old Carmon Wade, of Harrisburg, was taken to Boone Hospital for treatment after the accident, which occurred at around 6:30pm Sunday. The patrol says her car and an oncoming vehicle were both straddling the center line in a sharp curve when the collision occurred. The other driver, 66 year old Carolyn Young, of Columbia, was not injured.
BOONVILLE MAN CONVICTED ON CHILD PORN CHARGES
A Boonville man faces a 15 to 30 year prison sentence after being convicted on federal child pornography charges. 34 year old Matthew Lee Klopfenstein, of Boonville, was convicted of using an 8 year old minor to produce child pornography at a Boonville area motel. The investigation began in 2009 after federal agents executed a search warrant at the Troy, MO home of a friend of Klopfentstine, and recovered a number of images of child pornography, including photos of the victim in the Boonville case.
MILAN TEENS ARRESTED IN BURGLARY INVESTIGATION
Two Milan teens are charged in connection with a handful of Grundy County burglaries. 18 year old Lakota Cassity and 18 year old Matthew Thompson have been charged. Cassity faces three counts of burglary and one count of stealing and is being held on $40,000 dollars bond. Thompson is charged with one stealing count, his bond is set at $10,000. The charges stem from an investigation into multiple incidents at residences in rural Grundy County.
TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY FILLS POST
Truman State University has announced the appointment of P. Joan Poor as provost and vice president for academic affairs. She will take over the position effective July 1st. Poor was selected after a national search, involving several applicants. She currently serves as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of economics at Bemidji State University in Minnesota.
MEXICO TEEN ARRESTED AFTER SETTING FIRE IN SCHOOL
A Mexico teenager was arrested Thursday after allegedly starting a fire inside Mexico High School. Officials say the 15 year old student was arrested after Mexico Public Safety Officers found a small trash can fire in a 2nd floor bathroom at the school. The fire was quickly put out with a fire extinguisher. Officers say the 15 year old is also accused of making threatening statements earlier in the day. He was turned over to juvenile authorities.
COLUMBIA POLICE INVESTIGATE BREAK TIME ROBBERY
Columbia Police are investigating an armed robbery at the Break Time convenience store on Paris road. Officers were called to the scene shortly after 8pm, Thursday evening. They say an armed suspect apparently entered the store, showed a weapon and demanded cash. Police say the suspect is a young black male. The investigation is ongoing.
LAMBERT-BARROW NAMED ALL BIG-12
Former Brookfield Bulldog Luke Lambert and former Moberly Spartan Trey Barrow have received Big 12 All-Conference honors. Lambert was named honorable mention all-Big 12 linebacker by both the conference coaches and the Associated Press. Punter Trey Barrow, from Moberly, was named 2nd team all-Big 12 by both the coaches and the media.
TUESDAY MORNING SNOWFALL CAUSES TRAVEL PROBLEMS
Tuesday morning’s burst of snowfall caused considerable traffic problems in the area. Area law enforcement agencies reported numerous minor accidents related to slick roadways, and a number of delayed school busses during yesterday morning’s commute. Fortunately, most of the accidents reported did not involve significant injury.
SERIOUS INJURIES FOR QUEEN CITY DRIVER
A Queen City driver was seriously injured in a one-vehicle accident on Highway 136, east of Unionville, Tuesday afternoon. 31 year old Robert Benedict, of Queen City, was taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville after the accident, which occurred just after 1pm. The patrol says his van ran off the highway, struck a field entrance, became airborne and overturned.
MONROE CITY DRIVER HURT IN ACCIDENT
A Monroe City driver ran off Route 22 in Audrain County then came back on the roadway and collided with an oncoming tractor, at around 11am Tuesday. 62 year old Christine Osbourne, of Monroe City, was the driver of the car…she sustained moderate injuries, as did her passenger, 49 year old Carolyn Harris, of Paris. Both were taken to University Hospital in Columbia for treatment.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER INJURED IN HOWARD COUNTY COLLISION
A Boonville mother and daughter were both treated for injuries after their car slid into a Fayette school bus, early Tuesday morning. That accident occurred at around 7:20am on Highway 3 in Howard County. 32 year old Manda Foster, of Boonville, lost control of her car on the snow and ice covered roadway and it crossed the center line and collided with the oncoming bus. Foster suffered moderate injuries, her 6 year old daughter was treated for minor injuries. No one on the bus was injured.
LADDONIA MAN TREATED AFTER ACCIDENT
A Laddonia man was treated for moderate injuries after the car he was riding in slid off Audrain County Route J and struck a tree, just after 9am Tuesday. 49 year old Richard Shamblin, of Laddonia was treated at Audrain Medical Center after the accident. His 47 year old wife, Donna Shamblin, was the driver of the car…she was not injured.
CHILLICOTHE PLANT OFFICIALLY CLOSED
Chillicothe’s Gear For Sports plant official shut down its operation early Tuesday morning. The facility closed its doors at 5am yesterday, leaving 127 employees without jobs. In early October, Gear For Sports announced plans to shut down the Chillicothe plant. The jobs are moving to a plant in Reynosa, Mexico, where company officials say they can operate with lower cost and higher efficiency. Chillicothe economic development officials are all ready actively seeking an employer to occupy the vacated facility.
MEXICO BRICK PLANT LAYING OFF EMPLOYEES
A Mexico, MO based brick manufacturer has announced plans to lay off nearly all of its 34 hourly employees this week. Mid America Brick officials say the employees will stop work on Friday due to current business conditions. They hope the layoffs will be temporary, and plan to resume operations and recall employees as soon as market conditions warrant.
CHARGES FILED AFTER INCIDENT AT BUCKLIN AREA HOME
A New Cambria man is being held without bond after a Friday afternoon incident at a Bucklin area home. 28 year old George B. Coe, of New Cambria, is charged with felony counts of felonious restraint and unlawful use of a weapon. Court documents accuse Coe of assaulting his wife and holding her against her will for nearly four hours. Deputies say a loaded rifle was found inside the home. A search of the residence also resulted in drug possession charges. Coe is being held without bond because the court considers him a danger to the victim.
KIRKSVILLE MAN FACES DOMESTIC CHARGES
A Kirksville man is charged with domestic assault and tampering with a victim in connection with an incident which occurred over the Thanksgiving weekend. 32 year old Thomas Bass, of Kirksville, is being held on $25,000 dollars cash-only bond. He is accused of punching and kicking a female victim in the face and choking her during a domestic dispute on November 27th. Bass is also accused of threatening the victim and other family members should she call police.
MOBERLY MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE
A Moberly man faces new charges in connection with incidents in July. 42 year old Randy Ray Coonce is now charged with forcible rape and forcible sodomy. Coonce was all ready facing multiple drug charges in the case. He was arrested in July after a week-long manhunt by police. He is being held by Randolph County authorities on $100,000 dollars bond.
MEMORIAL SERVICE SET FOR MISSING TROOPER
A funeral and memorial service has been scheduled for a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper who disappeared this summer in northwest Missouri floodwaters. Trooper Fred Guthrie, Jr. disappeared along with his patrol dog on August 1st after apparently being swept away by floodwaters near Big Lake. The dog’s body was found the next day but Trooper Guthrie’s body has not yet been found. A visitation will be held December 13th at the Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty. A memorial service is scheduled for December 14th at the church.
JEFFERSON CITY TEEN LIFE-FLIGHTED AFTER CRASH
A Jefferson City teen was seriously injured in a one-vehicle accident on Highway 50 in Cole County, Monday afternoon. 19 year old Cameron Moayer was flown by Staff for Life helicopter to University Hospital in Columbia after the accident, which occurred at around 2:20pm. The patrol says his westbound car ran off the roadway, struck a culvert and a rock embankment and overturned several times.
LUDLOW DRIVER KILLED IN WEEKEND CRASH
A Friday afternoon accident on Highway 36 in Livingston County killed a Ludlow driver. 27 year old Cory Craft, of Ludlow, died in the accident. It occurred at around 4:40pm Friday, on 36 at its intersection with Livingston County Route D. The patrol says Craft was attempting to cross 36 when he pulled into the path of an eastbound pickup, driven by a Kearney man.
TEENS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN COLLISION
A Carrollton teenager was seriously injured in a weekend accident on a Ray County highway. 18 year old Ryan Silkwood, of Carrollton, was taken to Liberty Hospital after the accident, which occurred at around 9pm Friday. The patrol says his car ran off Route EE, struck an embankment and two large trees. A 15 year old passenger from Richmond, was also seriously injured.
FOUR HURT IN GREENCASTLE ACCIDENT
Four persons were injured in a Friday morning collision on Highway 6 in Greencastle. The patrol says 17 year old Paige Thornton, of Greencastle, attempted a left turn and pulled into the path of a car driven by 61 year old Carroll Walker, of Green City. Both drivers were treated for minor injuries, along with two passengers in the Thornton vehicle, age 14 and 9. They were taken to Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville.
FELONY SEX CHARGES AGAINST MACON WOMAN
A year-long investigation resulted in multiple sex related felony charges against a Macon woman last week. 34 year old Christina Spaid, of Macon, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child, statutory sodomy and use of a child in a sexual performance. Those charges allegedly involve a female juvenile, 15 to 16 years of age. She also faces a charge of unlawful sex with an animal, involving her husband’s dog. Spaid’s husband, 35 year old Billie Spaid, of Macon, was indicted on federal child pornography charges earlier this year.
COLUMBIA DRIVER KILLED IN SUNDAY CRASH
A Columbia driver died in a one-vehicle accident on Boone County Route WW, early Sunday morning. 45 year old Tracy M. Dexter, of Columbia, was killed in the crash. It occurred shortly after midnight Sunday. The patrol says Dexter failed to negotiate a curve and was partially ejected from his car as it ran off the highway and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
TWO BOONVILLE RESIDENTS HURT IN ACCIDENT
Two Boonville residents were hurt when their car ran off Highway 550 in Morgan County, early Sunday morning. 25 year old Carlos Tejeda, of Boonville, was the driver of an eastbound car. The patrol says he swerved to avoid oncoming traffic and the car ran off the highway and overturned. Tejeda was treated for minor injuries. A passenger, 20 year old Jalane Brake, of Boonville, was treated for moderate injuries.
MOBERLY MAN ARRESTED ON BURGLARY CHARGE
A Moberly man is in custody on burglary charges after his arrest over the weekend. 27 year old Jeffery Derboven, of Moberly, was arrested by Moberly Police on Saturday. The arrest came in the 300 block of South Sixth Street, after officers completed a felony complaint charging first-degree burglary. Derboven is in custody on $20,000 dollars bond.
WEEKEND BURGLARY AT COLUMBIA BREAK TIME
Columbia Police are investigating a weekend burglary at the Break Time Convenience store on Stadium Blvd. Investigators say someone apparently threw a rock thru the front door of the business and took the store’s cash register, overnight Friday night. Police are analyzing video footage as their investigation continues.
MACON COUNTY DRUG BUST THURSDAY
A Macon man faces multiple drug charges after his arrest Thursday afternoon. At around 4:40pm, the North Missouri Drug Task force, assisted by officers of the Macon County Sheriff's Department and Macon Police, executed a search warrant at the Travelers Hotel in Macon. Officers seized a large amount of crack cocain, methamphetamine and marijuana. A 26 year old Macon man was arrested and charged with attempting to manufacture meth, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Formal charges are pending.
SERIOUS INJURIES IN HARRISON COUNTY COLLISION
A Thursday afternoon collision on a Harrison County highway injured four occupants of two vehicles. The highway patrol says 24 year old Felicia Cutter, of Gilman City, was attempting to turn onto Highway 146 when her car collided with another vehicle, driven by 64 year old Diana Leonard of Ridgeway. Leonard was seriously injured. A passenger in her vehicle, 85 year old Alice Hancock of Bethany also suffered serious injuries. Another passenger, 68 year old Harold House of Bethany was treated for moderate injuries.
CHILD ABUSE CHARGE AGAINST KIRKSVILLE MAN
From www.heartlandconnection.com - powered by KTVO: A Kirksville man is accused of injuring an infant that was in his care. 24 year old Nathanial Chandler, of Kirksville, is charged with one felony count of child abuse. Police say the incident occurred on November 27th. Court documents accuse Chandler of shaking a crying seven-month old child, dropping the infant and striking the child in the face with his open palm. Physicians say the little girl’s injuries are consistent with Shaken Baby Syndrome. Chandler is being held in the Adair County Jail on $25,000 dollars cash only bond.
IOWA MAN CHARGED IN ADAIR AND CLARK COUNTIES
A Keokuk, Iowa suspect faces charges in Adair and Clark Counties, after his arrest this week. 28 year old Aaron Hamner was arrested by Kirksville Police. Investigation revealed his car had license plates connected to a stolen vehicle. Hamner is also suspected in the theft of a trailer and tools from Perfect Metals USA in Kirksville. He is charged with tampering with a motor vehicle, possession of meth and stealing. He’s being held in the Adair county Jail on $25,000 dollars bond.
FELONY SEX CHARGE AGAINST KIRKSVILLE MAN
A Kirksville man faces a felony sex charge related to an alleged incident in March. 23 year old Thomas Vanboening, of Kirksville, is charged with statutory sodomy. Police say the allegations involve a 16 year old male victim. Vandoening was arraigned Wednesday in Adair County. He’s being held on $25,000 dollars bond.
TISIUS ATTORNEY APPEALS TO SUPREME COURT
Michael Tisius, sentenced to death in connection with the killing of two Randolph County jailers more than ten years ago, is asking for a new hearing. Tisius’ attorney is asking the Missouri Supreme Court to hear arguments that prosecutors abused evidence rules in the case. Tisius is asking to have his death sentence changed to life in prison, without parole. He was sentenced to death after his original conviction, in 2001…after appealing that sentence, he was sentenced to death again in 2010. The Supreme Court decision could take several months.
COOPER WIRE THEFT FROM BOONE COUNTY BUSINESS
The Boone County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the theft of around $100,000 dollars in copper wire from APAC Industries, located north of Columbia. The theft was reported Thursday morning and occurred sometime after close of business on Wednesday. Employees say about 45 spools of coated copper wire is missing. Anyone with information about the theft is urged to contact the Crimestoppers hotline at 875-TIPS.
ARMED ROBBERY AT COLUMBIA PIZZA PLACE
Columbia Police have another armed robbery investigation on their hands. Officers say a suspect armed with a handgun robbed the Little Caeser’s restaurant on West Broadway in Columbia, at around 8:30pm Thursday. Police say no one was injured during the robbery. The suspect is described as a black male with a thin build, about 15 years old, wearing all black clothing.
SEMI RUNS OFF HIGHWAY 36
A New Mexico man escaped with only minor injuries when a tractor-trailer overturned on Highway 36, near Chillicothe, early Wednesday morning. 42 year old Ronald Johnson, of Albuquerque, was treated and released at Hedrick Medical Center after the accident, which occurred at 3:30am, just east of Chillicothe. The patrol says the eastbound semi ran off 36, into the median, where it struck multiple road signs and a crossover before coming to rest.
BOND REDUCTION DENIED FOR SHOOTING SUSPECT
From www.heartlandconnection.com – powered by KTVO: an Edina teen facing multiple charges in connection with last weekend’s shooting in Kirksville, was in court Wednesday. 18 year old Tyler Treece is charged with assault, unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action and endangering the welfare of a child. Wednesday, Adair County Associate Circuit Judge Krisie Swaim denied a bond reduction request. Treece remains in custoday on $250,000 dollars bond. Investigators say Treece admits shooting the 14 year old victim in the chest, but claims he did not know the gun was loaded.
STATE OFFICIALS TESTIFY IN MAMTEK HEARING
State Economic Development Director David Kerr was on the hotseat during day two of Missouri House Committee hearings on the failed Mamtek Project. Kerr said there was risk involved in the project, as there are with many worthwhile business ventures. He also cautioned the committee that demanding too much due diligence from companies looking to do business in Missouri could send the message that they’re not welcome here. Kerr acknowledged that communication between his department and the City of Moberly could have been better, but he said the state’s resources to double and triple-check information is limited. Committee Chairman Jay Barnes, of Jefferson City, says the department should do more due diligence on future projects and that the state should make helping Moberly fill the Mamtek facility a priority. The Missouri Senate plans to conduct its own hearings on the project in the coming weeks.
BOONVILLE PLANT CLOSING – JOBS TO MONROE CITY
A manufacturer is closing its facility in Boonville and moving jobs to its Monroe City plant. INDEECO, a design and manufacturing company that produces electric heating and cooling controls, has announced plans to close its Boonville plant by next fall, costing 65 jobs at that location. INDEECO will consolidate operations at its Monroe City location, adding 85 jobs there. Company officials say its Boonville employees will be given the option of taking some of those new Monroe City jobs.
COLUMBIA BROTHERS ARRESTED AFTER CHASE
Two Columbia brothers are in custody after a high-speed chase in Boone county Wednesday. 19 year old Durantrae Logan and 18 year old Darion Logan were taken into custody after the chase ended, near Lake of the Woods. Officers pursued their vehicle along I-70 after a traffic violation near 7th and Wilkes Boulevard. Deputies say a handgun was thrown from the passenger side of the car during the chase. Durantrae Logan is accused of being in possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, along with drug possession and resisting arrest. Darion is accused of tampering with evidence and possession of drug paraphernalia.