Joplin man's trial for first degree murder scheduled to begin November 10

The trial of Michael J. Osborne, 32, Joplin, on first degree murder and armed criminal action charges, is scheduled to begin Tuesday, November 10, in Jasper County Circuit Court with Judge Dean Dankelson presiding. The trial will be held in the former Joplin Public Library building and is expected to last three days.

Osborne was bound over for trial following an April 11 preliminary hearing.

The probable cause statement say witnesses indicate Osborne, 32, stabbed Shawn Rockers, 27, Joplin, to death and threatened to kill him a week earlier at the same address at which the murder took place.

The probable cause statement is printed below:

On 1-11-2019 at 302 S. Connor Ave. in Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri, Michael J. Osborne committed the offense of murder in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Osborne committed murder in the first degree by stabbing victim Shawn Rockers in the chest with a knife.

Roberts was transported to Freeman Hospital where he passed away due to the extent of the injury from the knife wound. A witness on scene observed Osborne stab Rockers in the chest with the knife. The witness was able to positively identify Osborne through a photo lineup.

(Another) witness stated that Osborne was at the residence of 302 S. Connor approximately seven days ago and had an altercation with Rockers. (She) said she heard Osborne state that he was going to kill Rockers.

A pre-trial conference is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday, November 2.