Neosho R-5 counselor surrenders to authorities on statutory rape charge, free after posting bond

Neosho South Elementary School counselor Jacob Oakes surrendered to Newton County authorities this afternoon after being charged Wednesday with statutory rape.

Oakes, 40, was released after posting a $5,000 code bond.

Newton County Circuit Court online records indicate Oakes is being represented by the Stilley Law Firm of Joplin.

Oakes, a former high school counselor and choir teacher in the R-5 School District, allegedly had sex with a 14-year-old girl in 2021 and an other occasions, including as recently as last month.

The district placed him on paid administrative leave.

More information about the case can be found at the links below.

The Turner Report: Statutory rape charge filed against Neosho elementary school counselor (rturner229.blogspot.com)

The Turner Report: Neosho R-5 counselor placed on leave as investigation continues into possible crime involving children (rturner229.blogspot.com)