Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Probable cause: Witnesses say argument over money led Branson man to stab Joplin woman to death

 


An argument over money led to the murder of a Joplin woman Sunday in Webb City, according to a probable cause statement filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court.

"According to witnesses, Nicholas Berry was arguing with Maria Whitaker over money. During that argument, Mr. Berry did attempt to pat down Ms. Whitaker. She slapped his hand away and he in turn stabbed her and took an undetermined amount of money from her pocket."

A warrant was issued today for the arrest of Nicholas Kyle Berry, 51, Branson, on charges of first degree murder, first degree robbery and two counts of armed criminal action. Berry remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.







 The felony charges are not the first Jasper County authorities have brought against Berry, according to online court records.

Berry pleaded guilty March 18, 2013 in Jasper County Circuit Court to felony delivery of a controlled substance and was sentenced to eight years in prison. He was released 14 months later after successfully completing a drug offender treatment program.

On July 25, 2016, Judge David Dally revoked Berry's probation and sent him to prison.

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