Joplin city crews cleaning up after tornado

(From the City of Joplin)

Joplin City crews have been working since about 1:30 am to clean up storm debris on city properties and streets after a tornado came through the west side of town around midnight. No injuries reported from the storm have been reported. 

The National Weather Service is now confirming there was a EF-0 to EF-1 tornado despite the fact no tornado warning was issued by the NWS. The storm was warned as a Severe Thunderstorm with a “Tornado Possible” tag. 

Here’s a summary update:

Public Works crews have already completed pick-up of tree debris from city streets. If you do see tree debris in any city street, please report it by calling 417-624-0820 Ext. 1564 or 1566. If no one answers please leave a message with an address and description of the issue. Remember, we do not clean storm damage on private property.

The tree limb drop-off facility (1702 N. Schifferdecker Ave.) is open for tree debris only – not building debris or other trash. Open until 7pm today and it will be open this weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 7am-7pm.

Residents and businesses with damage to their properties should contact their insurance provider.

Joplin Parks & Recreation sustained substantial damage at Schifferdecker Park.Schifferdecker Golf Course back 9 holes are closed due to about a dozen large trees which are down. Trees are being cut up, but cannot be transported out yet by large equipment due to wet/soft ground which means equipment would damage the course.

Parks Maintenance Storage Building was a total loss. This U-shaped pole barn was flipped by the winds. Thankfully, parks equipment stored there is okay.

The Parks Maintenance and Cemeteries Office building had its roof peeled back on the NE corner, there is significant damage to the offices, but again, the City is fortunate there is minimal damage to equipment.

Several large trees are also down within Schifferdecker Park.

Other Park facilities in and around the area seem to have weathered the storm okay, including the Museum, JACC, and Golf Course clubhouse.

Jill Carter: CASA volunteers helping foster children

(From Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby)

Imagine every child having a champion—someone who sees their potential, fights for their stability, and helps them believe in their brighter future. In Missouri’s foster care system, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are making that difference every single day.

The numbers tell an inspiring story of hope. Children with a CASA volunteer are 1.5 to 2 times more likely to graduate high school than those without one. They are more likely to stay in the same school, avoid falling behind academically, and pursue college or vocational training. While children in foster care overall graduate at 50–60 percent—compared to 85–90 percent in the general population—CASA volunteers help close that gap by tracking attendance and grades, advocating for school stability, pushing for tutoring, testing, and needed services, and ensuring the child’s own voice is heard loud and clear in court.

The impact goes far beyond the classroom. On average, children with a CASA spend four months less in foster care. Re-entry rates drop dramatically—to less than 1 percent for CASA-supported children, compared to 17 percent statewide. These advocates help build safer, more permanent homes while saving Missouri taxpayers more than $20,000 per child per year. CASA children are also more likely to receive the services they need and thrive once they leave the system.

Across Missouri, the CASA movement is growing hearts and changing lives. In 2025, 1,792 dedicated volunteers contributed over 100,531 hours statewide, supporting thousands of children. Twenty-four CASA programs now operate in 28 of Missouri’s 46 judicial circuits. In 2023, more than 2,000 volunteers helped over 4,600 children—yet more than 12,000 still waited for an advocate. The opportunity to do more is clear and exciting.

Right here in Newton and McDonald counties, New-Mac CASA is a beacon of community compassion. With 19 volunteers currently serving 73 children (and 102 served so far in 2025), the program embodies the original CASA vision. In 1977, a Seattle judge realized he needed better information to protect abused and neglected children. He asked ordinary citizens to step up—and they did. Today, New-Mac CASA’s volunteers research needs, speak in court, and advocate tirelessly for safe, permanent homes in the 40th Circuit. Their work proves that local heroes can transform young lives.

Imagine the ripple effect: a child who stays in one school builds lasting friendships and confidence. A teenager who gets tutoring discovers a love for learning and eyes a future in college or trade school. A family finds stability and avoids the heartbreak of re-entry into care. These are not abstract statistics—they are real Missouri kids gaining hope, resilience, and opportunity.

You can be part of this inspiring movement. A few hours a month as a CASA volunteer can change a child’s entire trajectory. Your donation can bring an advocate to one more child in need.

As part of New-Mac CASA, children in foster care are waiting for someone who believes in them. CASA volunteers are showing us what’s possible when caring adults step forward. Together, we can give more kids the stability, support, and voice they deserve. One advocate at a time, we are building brighter futures.

If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful difference, here is one amazing opportunity. Ellen and her team are phenomenal and would love to have you join them in loving on and advocating for these amazing kids.
 

Carthage R-9 Board hires 10 teachers, accepts 6 resignations

(From the Carthage R-9 School District)

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, April 20, 2026, 6:00 pm, at Carthage South Technical Center – Community Room. Present were board members Ms. Niki Cloud, Mr. Ryan Collier, Mrs. Lora Phelps, Dr. Mark Westhoff, Mr. Jeff Jones, Ms. Maria Sanchez, and Mr. Patrick Scott. Ms. Niki Cloud led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, payment of bills, district financial report, and amendments to FY26 budget.

Dr. Luke Boyer extended his appreciation to Mr. Patrick Scott with a plaque for his years of dedicated service to the Board of Education.

Only three candidates filed for the three open positions on the Carthage R-9 Board of Education this year, making it unnecessary for the district to hold an annual election.

In accordance with RSMo115.124(1), the oath of office was administered to Mrs. Lora Phelps, Mr. Jeff Jones, and Dr. Robin Blair, by Ms. Niki Cloud, Board President.

The Board Officers for 2026-2027 are:

President Niki Cloud

Vice President Ryan Collier

Secretary Lora Phelps

Treasurer Mark Westhoff

Board members volunteered to serve as delegates and committee representatives and the 2026-2027
Board of Education meeting schedule was approved.

Dr. Scott Ragsdale, Carthage Intermediate Center Principal, provided information regarding 2026
summer school. Kindergarten through eighth grade summer school will take place Thursday, May 28th – Wednesday, June 24th. Bus transportation and breakfast and lunch will be provided free to all students.

Dr. Matt Huntley, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, presented to the board the MSIP 6 report
on CSIP Priority 1 – developing successful students.

Ms. Maria Sanchez provided a Carthage R-9 Foundation update stating the Flanigan and Boylan scholarship winners are being selected and the senior academic awards night will be held May 4, 2026 at 6:30pm at Carthage High School.

Dr. Holley Goodnight, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Mr. Dan Hill, Director of Facilities, and
Crossland Construction Company, Inc., representatives provided the Board an update on the progress
of the Carthage R-9 Performing Arts Center.

Dr. Goodnight, Mr. Hill, and the Board discussed the 2026-27 capital improvement projects.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the KE Baker Remodel bid package.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the custodial supplies bid package. Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the pest management control bid package.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the HVAC-Energy Services Company (ESCO) bid package.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the employee health insurance plan for the 2026-2027 school year.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board information regarding a third-party administrator for the employee health plan and stop-loss carrier for the 2026-2027 school year.

Dr. Goodnight presented to the Board the employee dental insurance plan for the 2026-2027 school year.

Dr. Huntley provided the Board information regarding the 2026-2027 student handbook changes for
their review.

Dr. Boyer presented his report to the Board.

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss legal, personnel, and student matters in compliance with Section 610.021 (1), (3), and (6) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.

In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions:

Approved the employment of certified, support, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon
receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of
Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri
Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:

Certified Hire
,
Katey Fallis, school counselor, Carthage Sixth Grade Center- Mrs. Fallis is a behavioral health professional with a background in counseling, addiction services, and healthcare administration. She holds a B.S. in HealthAdministration, an M.S. in Health Leadership, and is completing an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2026). Her experience includes serving as a Program Director at Grand Falls Center for Recovery, a Child Welfare Investigator for the State of Missouri, and a counselor with Ozark Center.

Amelia Conkright, kindergarten teacher, Columbian Elementary- Ms. Conkright is an elementary education candidate at Missouri Southern State University with an expected graduation of May 2026. She is currently completing her student teaching at Columbian Elementary,.

Gavin King, assistant band director, Carthage Sixth Grade Center- Mr. King is a Missouri State University student pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education (Instrumental), with anticipated graduation and K-12 certification in May 2026. He has experience as a student teacher at Branson High School and as a marching band intern and brass staff member, supporting band instruction and performance preparation.

Josh Sonis, special education teacher, Carthage High School- Mr. Sonis is an experienced educator and athletic coach with nearly 20 years in secondary education and athletics, primarily in the Neosho and Seneca school districts. He hold a B. S. in Exercise Science from Missouri Valley College and is pursuing a Master of Arts in teaching with Missouri Southern State University.

Laurel Wheeler, English Language Arts Teacher, Carthage High School- Ms. Wheeler is an English Language Arts educator currently teaching sixth and eighth grade reading and communication arts. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Missouri Southern State University and is completing a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (expected May 2026).

Ethan Matlock, Vocal Music Teacher/Choir Director, Carthage Junior High School- Mr. Matlock is a vocal music educator with experience teaching middle school choir (grades 6-8) and a background in K-12 music education. He has held teaching roles in Oklahoma and completed student teaching and internships across Missouri and Iowa. He is a graduate of Graceland University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and K-12 certification.

Nicola Higgs, 5th Grade Teacher, Carthage Intermediate Center- Ms. Higgs is an experienced educator with many years in elementary and middle school instruction, currently teaching 6th and 8th grade science in Springfield Public Schools. Her career includes long-term service with Carthage R-9 and Diamond R-IV School Districts, with expertise in science, math intervention, and dual language education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Missouri Southern State University.

Dawn Cullumber, Instructional Coach, Carthage Sixth Grade Center- Ms. Cullumber is an experienced
educator with 17 years of classroom teaching. She currently teaches 7th grade science at Webb City Junior High. She holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Missouri Southern State University.

Amanda Lamb, Sixth Grade Center Math, Carthage Sixth Grade Center- Ms. Lamb is a paraprofessional with the Webb City School District who brings several years of classroom support experience working with elementary students, including those with IEPs and 504 plans. She is currently completing a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (expected May 2026).

Kayla Boucher, Special Education Teacher, Carthage Sixth Grade Center- Mrs. Boucher is a current behavior interventionist with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from MidAmerica Nazarene University. She has experience in ABA therapy and working one-on-one with children with autism, as well as prior roles in child welfare, behavioral support, and program facilitation.

Support Hire

Glenn Taylor, HVAC technician
Colton Curry, special education paraprofessional, Carthage High School
Skylor Smith, special education paraprofessional, Carthage High School
Curtis Baker, bus driver

Substitute Hire

Natasha O'Brien-Davies
Vincent Burwick, substitute custodian

Certified Transfer

Katie Gronberg, second grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Robin Brown, second grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Tricia Brust, early childhood teacher, Mark Twain Elementary
Cheyenne Salazar, kindergarten teacher, Steadley Elementary
Delayna Honaker, first grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Andria Gregory, first grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Jessiea O'Neill, second grade dual-language teacher, Fairview Elementary
Meghan Frischenmeyer, Title 1 teacher, Carthage Sixth Grade Center
Julie Neher, band teacher, Carthage Junior High School
Stasia Fisher, second grade teacher, Mark Twain Elementary
Regina Guidie, second grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Tammy Davison, Title 1 teacher, Carthage Sixth Grade Center
Amy Bien, K-3 instructional coach, Steadley Elementary
Ashley Sharp, special education teacher, Carthage Sixth Grade Center
Jonathan Brinkhoff, special education teacher, Carthage High School
Brianna Mertens, instructional coach, Carthage Junior High School
Drew Bridges, virtual learning instructor, Carthage High School/VLC
Angela Haas, fifth grade teacher, Carthage Intermediate Center
Crystal Krause, sixth grade math teacher, Carthage Sixth Grade Center.

Support Modification

Corbyn Woodall, maintenance/grounds

Support Transfer

Maddix McCahon, IT computer technician, IT Department
Connie Murray, special education paraprofessional, Fairview Elementary
Odilia Gonzalez-Garza, special education paraprofessional, Carthage High School
Kailyn Schultz, special education paraprofessional, Mark Twain Elementary
Charles Fraser, special education paraprofessional, Mark Twain Elementary
Gloria Lozano, special education paraprofessional, Steadley Elementary
Crystal Merick, special education paraprofessional, Steadley Elementary
Paola Trujillo, special education paraprofessional, Steadley Elementary
Dona Hall, special education paraprofessional, Carthage Intermediate Center
Michelle Endicott, Title I instructional assistant, Carthage Intermediate Center

Certified Resignation

Sylvia McReynolds, second grade teacher, Steadley Elementary
Melissa Estes, EL teacher, Columbian Elementary
Eric Stark, band teacher, Carthage Junior High School
Broc Wolfe, social studies teacher, Carthage High School
Ivonna Marcela Chipatecua Fique- seventh grade dual-language teacher, Carthage Junior High School
Garrett Jack, math teacher, Carthage High School

Support Resignation

Johnathan Lashmet, maintenance
Megan Ryan, speech language pathologist, Columbian Elementary
Carson Huston, bus aide
Jarrett Little, accompanist, Carthage High School
Brooklyn Cordova, cook, Fairview Elementary
Michael Dietz, bus driver
Corbyn Woodall, maintenance
Ashton Williams, special education paraprofessional, Carthage High School

Support Retirement

Delores Duncan, head custodian, Steadley Elementary
Angela Williams, federal programs coordinator, District Office
Kathy Smith, kitchen manager, Pleasant Valley Elementary
Joyce Hale, cook, Steadley Elementary
Debra Craig, cook, Steadley Elementary

Substitute Resignation

Willis Potter

Probable cause: Webb City woman attacks boyfriend with hatchet

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed first-degree domestic assault, armed criminal action, drug trafficking and possession of a controlled substance charges against Pearl Elizabeth Barlow (DOB 1980), Webb City, who allegedly attacked her boyfriend with a hatchet during an argument.

Barlow is to be held without bond.

From the probable cause statement:

On February 18th 2026 at 1623 hours, Officers were dispatched to the 500 Blk of S Roane in the City of Webb City, County of Jasper, State of Missouri, in reference to a 91 1 hangup. When I, Officer Fultz, arrived on scene V1 was laying on his back in the door way screaming for help and that he had been cut. 

While tending to Victim 1's injuries, V1 stated that a female, later identified as Pearl Barlow had cut him with a hatchet. I placed a tourniquet on V1's left leg due to the amount of blood he was losing.

Later on, it was determined that V1 had 3 deep lacerations and 1 superficial. The deep lacerations were
on the inside of VI's right knee, on the outside of his left knee, and on the back of his left Achillies.

The superficial wound was on V1's right pinky toe.

Pearl was located hiding in a shop to the East of the property. During the investigation of the scene,
blood was located on the kitchen floor with a trail of blood leading to the front door where V1 was
located. 

While interviewing other occupants of the home. W1 stated she heard banging, yelling and screaming when Pearl ran into her bedroom and said "I f---ed up, call 911." W2 had a similar story, he stated he heard the same banging, yelling and screaming when Pearl entered the room and said "He's bleeding out call 911." A hatchet was located in the living room.

On February 19th 2026 at 1313 hours, I met with Pearl at the Hospital. I introduced myself and asked
Pearl to explain the events that transpired the night before. Pearl stated VI and her got into an argument that escalated when V1 punched her in the forehead. Pearl tried to calm V1 down, but V1 continued and eventually put Pearl into a "triangle" choke hold. Pearl was able to break free of the choke hold and ran down the hallway to her bedroom where she retrieved a hatchet. Pearl returned to the living room and told V1 to calm down. 

VI noticed the hatchet and V1 and Pearl began fighting over it. Pearl didn't know what happened on the ground, but somehow, she won the fight over the hatchet and hit V1 with it. Pearl was unsure how many times she hit V1 but stated she hit him multiple times. 

Pearl panicked and ran to the room of W1 and W2 to have them call 911. She returned to V1, who had
crawled into the kitchen, and put blankets and towels on V1's legs to try to stop the bleeding. While
attempting to stop the bleeding, VI crawled from the kitchen to the front door where I located him.

Pearl stated V1 looked at her and said "I don't know who you are, but they're here you need to run."

Pearl then ran out the back door and hid in the shed.

Cpl. Putnam asked Ms. Barlow if he could check her pockets before the ambulance arrived and she
stated that was okay. While searching her pockets, He located a baggie with a crystal like rock in her
front right coin pocket. The rock later tested positive for methamphetamine and fentanyl and weighted
approximately 2.6 grams.

Ms. Barlow and V1 were in a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship and living together at the time of the
incident.

The case was investigated by the Webb City Police Department.

Government recommends 30-year sentence for Noel man in kidnapping that led to murder

In a sentencing memorandum filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, the U. S. Attorney recommended a 30-year sentence for Mahamud Tooxoow Mahamed, Noel, who pleaded guilty August 22 to the 2019 kidnapping that led to the murder of Jessica McCormack, 25, Noel, a former Carthage resident.

If the judge follows the recommendation, Mahamed's sentence would be followed by five years of supervised release, according to the memorandum.

Mahamed's sentencing is scheduled for 9 a.m. May 6 in U. S. District Court in Springfield.

A major reason for not asking for more prison time for Mahamed was a desire to keep McCormack's three children, one of whom was also Mahamed's child, from having to testify at trial.

From the memorandum:

The defendant caused the death of J.M. while kidnapping her. J.M. contacted the police on July 16, 2019, to report that the defendant held her at knife point and tried to rape her. This was the last time anyone observed J.M. alive or her three minor daughters, Jane Does 1-3, in the state of Missouri. 

On July 29, 2019, J.M. was located partially nude in a suitcase that had been discarded off the side of Missouri Highway 59 approximately. Law enforcement’s investigation revealed that the defendant was in Minnesota and Iowa with the Jane Does in August 2019. 

On August 8, the Jane Does were reported as abandoned at a residence in Iowa. The defendant left the United States and was later apprehended in Guatemala

The defendant’s conduct in killing J.M. leaves little room for any variance; however, in pleading guilty, he has accepted responsibility and protected the Jane Does from reliving this horrific event before the Court and a jury. Consequently, the government respectfully recommends that the 360-month sentence is just but not greater than necessary to meet the ends of justice based on the nature and circumstances of the offense.

More details on the investigation can be found at the link below.

Sentencing date set for kidnapping that led to Noel woman's murder

Autopsy scheduled for Freeman doctor

An autopsy is scheduled Friday morning for Freeman Health Systems Doctor Savitha Satyasi, 49, whose body was found at Ozark Center New Directions Thursday night. Satyasi

Satyasi was a psychiatrist with more than 20 years of experience and often worked with patients with dementia.

According to KSN, the Newton County Coroner's office was contacted this morning and scheduled the autopsy because there were still "unanswered questions.

Freeman issued the following statement:

“We are saddened to confirm the passing of one of our physicians, recognizing the significant loss for our Freeman Health System. and Ozark Center community. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we are unable to share additional details at this time.”

Joplin Globe names new publisher

Josh Umholtz, publisher of Farm Talk and a West Plains native, has been named publisher of The Joplin Globe. Farm Talk, published out of Parsons, Kansas, is owned by CNHI, the same company that owns the Globe.

The Globe released the announcement on its website this evening.

“Josh brings the perfect blend of seasoned experience and high energy to the Globe team,” said Robyn McCloskey, CNHI’s executive vice president for newspapers. “He has demonstrated impressive leadership skills and commitment to quality local news and advertising content in print and online.

Umholtz replaces Joplin native Katherine Miller, who had been publisher since January 2025. Miller is not mentioned in the article. She has also been serving as publisher of two other CNHI newspapers.

The new publisher will be the sixth in eight years for the Globe. Miller replaced Robin Phelan, who took the job in March 2023, following Dave Brendel, who was fired after three and a half years.

Brendel replaced Frank Leto who had the job from July 2018 to October 2019.

Leto followed Michael Beatty who was publisher for eight years.

Kehoe signs four bills into law

(From Gov, Mike Kehoe)

Today, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed four pieces of legislation into law: House Bills (HB) 2061, 2423, 2641, and 2934.

HB 2061, sponsored by Representative George Hruza and Senator Curtis Trent, provides protection against discrimination and antisemitism in public schools and public postsecondary educational institutions.Adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism.

Requires Missouri public K-12 schools, charter schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions to treat antisemitic harassment and discrimination like any race-based discrimination under Title VI.
Establishes a formal complaint and accountability process to ensure Title VI concerns are investigated and addressed.

"Antisemitism has no place in Missouri, especially in our classrooms," said Governor Kehoe. "I'm grateful to Representative Hruza, Senator Trent, and the entire General Assembly for sending this legislation to my desk. By signing this bill, we are standing up for safety, dignity, and the fundamental right of every student to learn free from hate."

HB 2641, sponsored by Representative Dave Hinman and Senator David Gregory, creates provisions relating to cannabis and establishes the Intoxicating Cannabinoid Control Act.Aligns the state's definition of hemp with the new federal definition, bringing the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoid products under existing marijuana regulations.
Requires non-licensed entities to discontinue the manufacturing or sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products.
Prohibits marijuana dispensaries or other authorized parties from retaining records or disseminating identifying information for consumers of regulated marijuana products unless the consumer agrees to the creation or retention in writing.

"For too long, bad actors have exploited loopholes to market intoxicating products—including candy-like gummies or look-alike products—without meaningful oversight or accountability," said Governor Kehoe. "This legislation ensures that Missourians know the products sold in their communities are safe, regulated, and kept out of the hands of children."

HB 2934, sponsored by Representative Brad Christ and Senator Brian Williams, modifies provisions relating to the governance and funding of the St. Louis City and St. Louis County convention and sports complex authorities.Merges the St. Louis Regional Sports Authority (RSA) and the St. Louis Regional Convention and Visitors Commission under a 15-member Regional Visitors Commission.
Creates a convention district to allow for special assessments on real property and a sales tax levy of up to 2 percent to support facility improvements and operations, upon approval by eligible voters and business owners.

"Oversight works best when it is efficient, focused, and structured to meet the moment," said Governor Kehoe. "By bringing two fantastic boards under one name, House Bill 2934 creates a stronger framework for collaboration and positions the St. Louis region for growth, investment, and long-term success."

Governor Kehoe also signed HB 2423, sponsored by Representative Philip Oehlerking and Senator Sandy Crawford. This bill revises statutory provisions under the Division of Finance by creating a new fund for depositing moneys collected from consumer credit licensing fees.

Neosho man charged with statutory rape, 3 counts of statutory sodomy

The Newton County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed a statutory rape charge and three counts of statutory sodomy against a Neosho man who allegedly committed the acts with a girl less than 12 years old.

An arrest warrant was issued for Steenson Darra (DOB 2002) with no bond.

From the probable cause statement:

A forensic interview was conducted at the Joplin Children's Center with V1 the juvenile victim listed in the original report. V1 disclosed that Steenson Darra had touched her vagina with his finger and went back and forth. 

V1 also disclosed that Steenson Darra put his penis in her vagina and her butt.

Contact was made with Steenson Darra who agreed to an interview at the Newton County Sheriff's Office. After being advised of his Miranda Rights Mr. Darra agreed to speak with me at which time he disclosed that he had digitally penetrated V1 as well as engaged in both vaginal and anal sexual intercourse with V1. 

Mr. Darra disclosed the time he engaged in anal sex with V1 was the Monday after the Easter holiday (2026) .

Mr. Darra was taken into custody and turned over to the Newton County jail without incident.

Lawsuits against Mercy Hospital moved to Newton County Circuit Court

Two lawsuits filed against Mercy Joplin in Jasper County Circuit Court were moved to Newton County on changes
of venue Tuesday.

Newton County resident Lindsay Shaffer filed a malpractice action against Mercy Joplin and acute care nurse practitioner Peter Bates and Dr. Junaid Haroon March 4 alleging four counts of negligence.

Cheryl Brock, an Ottawa County, Oklahoma resident, sued the hospital in December after injuring her face in a hallway fall. More information about her lawsuit can be found in the December 5 Turner Report.

Shaffer lawsuit

From the petition:

On or about March 8, 2024, Plaintiff presented to Mercy Hospital Joplin with shortness of breath and was diagnosed with a right-sided pneumothorax.

Defendant Peter Bates, APRN, performed a chest tube (pigtail catheter) insertion on Plaintiff on March 8, 2024.

Defendant Junaid Haroon, M.D., personally examined Plaintiff on March 8, 2024, participated in formulation of the treatment plan, and assumed thoracic surgery management of Plaintiff’s chest tube.

Defendant Bates placed a right lateral pigtail chest tube at the fourth intercostal space using a finder needle, guidewire, dilator, and 14 French catheter.

During the course of treatment, Plaintiff suffered complications including lung injury, pain, and subsequent medical consequences.

During the course of Defendants’ care and treatment, a metallic needle fragment was left in Plaintiff’s body at or near the T11 vertebral region.

The retained foreign body was not disclosed to Plaintiff at the time of the procedure.

At all relevant times, Defendants owed Plaintiff a duty to timely disclose known complications of the procedure, including the presence of any retained foreign object. Despite knowledge of imaging demonstrating the retained metallic fragment, Defendants failed to disclose this information to Plaintiff and failed to initiate appropriate follow-up evaluation or treatment.

The retained object later interfered with imaging, required neurosurgical evaluation, and created ongoing medical risk.

Upon information and belief, the retention of a metallic needle fragment within a patient’s body during an invasive procedure constitutes a recognized preventable patient safety event within the healthcare industry and would reasonably require internal reporting, investigation, and corrective action by the hospital and its medical staff.

Plaintiff was a 39-year-old female presenting with a right-sided spontaneous pneumothorax. Imaging showed no blebs or bullae.

Defendants failed to investigate or document correlation between Plaintiff’s pneumothorax and menstrual cycle.

Defendants failed to consider catamenial pneumothorax or thoracic endometriosis.

Plaintiff subsequently suffered recurrent pneumothoraces.

Plaintiff ultimately required extensive robotic surgery in February 2026 including hysterectomy and excision of diaphragmatic endometriosis.

Earlier recognition of catamenial pneumothorax would have altered Plaintiff’s treatment pathway and reduced recurrence, progression, and damages.

Because of the actions of the defendant, the petition says, Shaffer suffered lung damage requiring wedge resections; prolonged hospitalization, was discharged home with chest tube and Heimlich valve and has permanent loss of lung tissue and ongoing pain, dyspnea, and impairment.

Shaffer, who is being represented by B. Kyle Kent of Show MO Justice, LLC, Springfield, is suing for negligence concerning chest tube placement and management, the retained foreign object, failure to disclose medical information and failure to diagnose catamential pneumothorax.

Jared Robertson of Malkmus Law, Springfield, representing Mercy Joplin and Dr. Haroon denied all allegations in his response, as did Brent G. Wright of Horn, Aylward & Bandy, LLC, of Kansas City, representing Bates in his response.