Probable cause: Illegal immigrant needing meth money robs, kills man, dumps body along I-44

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed first degree murder, armed criminal action and robbery charges today against a Honduran illegal immigrant who allegedly shot a man in the head in the parking lot of the Road Ranger stations at 2101 S. Prigmore Avenue, then teamed with his brother to dump the man's body in a ditch at the 14.8 mile marker of I-44.

Adin Aman Cantanero Benitez, 26, will be held without bond, according to online Jasper County Circuit Court records.

Charges against the brother, Jose Cantanero Benitez, 20, also an illegal immigrant, are anticipated, according to a Jasper County Sheriff's Office news release.

The allegations against Adin Aman Cantanero Benitez are detailed in the probable cause statement:

On September 16th, 2024 Jasper County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were alerted to a deceased individual, Victim 1, in the ditch on the south side of Interstate I-44 at the Eastbound 14.8 mile marker in Joplin, Jasper County, MO. The victim was found by deputies deceased with an injury to the head. During the investigation, it was learned that Victim 1’s vehicle was missing. 

On September 18th, 2024 detectives’ were notified by the Independence Police Department that Victim 1’s vehicle was recovered and was used in an assault with a firearm in their jurisdiction, which they had their suspect {Jose Cantanero Benitez} in custody. 

Detectives processed Victim 1’s vehicle and located a red stain believed to be blood in the vehicle. An interview was then conducted with Suspect 2(IPD had in custody for an unrelated assault with a firearm). 

Suspect 2 confessed that he was in Joplin, Jasper County, MO with his brother, Adin Aman Cantarero-Benitez, on Sunday 09/15/2024 and 09/16/2024. Suspect 2 advised they were on their way to Oklahoma to purchase methamphetamine but they ran out of money and stopped near a gas station in Joplin, MO.

Suspect 2 admitted to giving Adin his pistol before the trip. Suspect 2 advised he waited for Adin near the gas station after Adin told him he had a “plan” to get money. Adin returned later with Victim 1’s vehicle. 

Suspect 2 advised Adin was sitting on top of the victim and the victim was deceased while Adin was driving the victim’s vehicle. Suspect 2 told detectives that he followed Adin to the interstate while Adin was still driving the victim’s car and sitting on the victim’s lap. 

Adin and Suspect 2 then stopped on Interstate I-44 and Adin and Suspect 2 dragged and left the victim’s body in the ditch. Suspect 2 was asked if he shot the victim. Suspect 2 advised several times that Adin shot the victim. 

Suspect 2 advised that he drove his vehicle (suspect vehicle) while Adin drove the victim’s vehicle and then at one point, they switched vehicles and Adin gave Suspect 2 back his firearm. Suspect 2 advised that he then drove around the victim’s vehicle until he was taken into custody by IPD. 

It was learned that Adin was taken into custody on September 16th, 2024 in the evening hours for driving while intoxicated by IPD and the vehicle he was driving matched the suspect vehicle (Suspect 2's vehicle). 

A booking photo from IPD showed Adin in a distinctive black and white button down shirt when he was arrested. On September 19th, 2024 security footage from the gas station was reviewed. The victim’s vehicle is seen on camera in the earlier hours of 09/16/2024. 

Adin is seen on camera approach the victim’s vehicle and then get in and drive off with a subject believed to be victim 1 pushed over in the driver’s seat. Adin is wearing what appears to be the same distinctive shirt in the security footage. 

Suspect 2 described to detective’s what he and Adin were wearing the morning of the murder. Adin’s clothing description in security footage at the gas station matched what suspect 2 advised Adin was wearing.

The Jasper County Sheriff's Office news release indicates the younger Benitez was also allegedly involved in two more acts of violence, including a shooting.

 On 09-17-24 just after 5:00 PM, the Independence Police Department was called in reference to the second suspect, Jose Cantarero Benitez, 20, who had attempted to carjack another vehicle and shot a woman in the chest. He fled that scene and was later arrested by KCPD after they had received a call of another woman that he had pistol whipped. 

After a foot pursuit, he was arrested. The female victim that was shot is reportedly in critical condition.

Missouri Dental Board takes interest in Dr. Joseph's hit-and-run case four years after prescription drug discipline

Cherokee County, Kansas District Court documents indicate the Missouri Dental Board has taken an interest in the felony charges facing Dr. John Joseph II, Joplin, in connection with the August 19, 2023 hit-and-run death of Gary LaTurner, 60, Galena.

Joseph is charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident and contributing to a child's misconduct and encouraging him to commit a felony. The child in question, his son Rocco Joseph, who was 17 at the time of the hit-and-run, is also charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident.

The District Court office e-mailed a copy of public documents in the Joseph case to the board Monday, according to the court docket.

The notation also included the information that a copy of the records was faxed to the Dental Board last week.

This is not the first time Joseph's conduct has come under the scrutiny of the Dental Board.

The board placed Joseph on probation for one year August 25, 2020 after investigating an August 13, 2019 complaint forwarded from the Missouri Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (BNDD) saying that Joseph "was allowing a friend after hours access to {his} clinic and logged-on computers. Prescriptions were forged and licensee was censured by BNDD in 2018.

The same thing occurred "a second time with a different friend," according to the Dental Board document.

"The BNDD cited violations which included inadequate controls to guard against the diversion of controlled drugs, refills overlapping too soon causing diversion and failure to notify the BNDD of forged or falsified records."

How much will new Freeman CEO make? Tax documents show Baker made nearly $2 million in 2022

While we have no idea what kind of pay package will be offered to incoming Freeman Health president/CEO Tom Keller, it's almost certain he will be making more than the current holder of that position Paula Baker.

That is not any reflection on Baker's job performance, that's just the way things are done.

People who are hired to be the number one person in almost any business or institution will receive more money than their predecessors.

If that's the case, it seems almost certain Keller, who is currently president and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare in West Plains will receive a compensation package of more than $2 million.

Freeman Health's Form 990 for the year 2022, filed with the Internal Revenue Service indicates Baker received total compensation of $1,810,362.

Baker's base pay as Freeman's head honcho was $998,822. She received an additional $249,706 pay for her work with Freeman's related organizations. Another section of the form shows Baker worked an average 54 hours a week for Freeman Health and 13 and a half hours per week for the related organizations.

Baker received a $399,642 bonus for her work at Freeman and a $99,910 bonus for the related organizations.

Among Baker's other compensation:

-$21,509 in "other compensation" from Freeman with $5,377 in "other compensation" from related organizations

-$6,960 in retirement and deferred compensation from Freeman with $1,740 from related organizations

-$21,357 in non-taxable benefits from Freeman with $5,339 from related organizations

Josh Hawley, Lucas Kunce agree to Missouri Senate debate just days before election

By Jason Hancock

Missouri Independent

After weeks of tussling between the two campaigns, Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and Democrat Lucas Kunce are finally set to square off in a televised debate less than a week before voters head to the polls.

(Photo- Republican U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, left, confronts his Democratic challenger, Lucas Kunce, over who is ducking debates during a meeting Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia- Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).

The debate will air Oct 31 on Missouri Nexstar stations, including KTVI/KPLR-St. Louis, WDAF-Kansas City, KRBK-Springfield and KSN-Joplin and their digital platforms. It could be the only time the two main contenders for Missouri’s U.S. Senate seat share a stage.

The Missouri Press Association has held a Senate debate every election cycle for years at its annual convention. Kunce is set to appear at this year’s debate on Friday in Springfield along with third-party candidates Jared Young and Nathan Kline, according to Mark Maassen, the press associations executive director.

“No word yet from Josh Hawley,” Maassen said.

Hawley’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment on Friday’s debate.

Caleb Cavarretta, Kunce’s campaign manager, said in an emailed statement that Kunce agreed to Friday’s debate because “unlike Josh Hawley, Lucas respects the responsibility of a candidate and U.S. Senator to connect with folks they are meant to represent.”

“This year, we’ve got two weeks of no excuse in-person absentee voting in Missouri so it would be great for voters to hear from Josh Hawley before then,” Cavarretta said, “but unfortunately he wants to hide out as long as he can before election day.”

Kunce initially challenged Hawley to five televised debates. Hawley, however, demanded a debate at the Missouri State Fair in early August.

When State Fair officials said that was not possible, and that no one from Hawley’s campaign had alerted them to the possibility of a debate, Hawley pushed for a debate hosted by the Missouri Farm Bureau, which has endorsed him in the race.

Kunce said he would sign off on the idea as long as Hawley would formally agree to his suggestion of five televised debates, and the farm bureau showdown never materialized.

Instead, Kunce and Hawley crossed paths at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast at the Missouri State Fair, trading insults and demands for debates.

In 2022, Republican Eric Schmitt also refused to participate in the press association’s debate, only the second time since 1988 that a major-party candidate refused to attend one of the organization’s forums.

While Hawley is unlikely to attend, the two major candidates for Missouri governor will debate on Friday, Maassen said.

Republican Mike Kehoe, Democrat Crystal Quade and third party candidates Paul Lehmann and Bill Slantz have agreed to participate in the gubernatorial forum, Maassen said.

Both the gubernatorial and Senate debates will be moderated by David Lieb of the Associated Press, with a panel of journalists from around the state — Lucas Presson of the Southeast Missourian, Christine Tempe of the Springfield Business Journal and Alvin Reid of the St. Louis American.

Tom Keller named President/CEO of Freeman Health

(Note: This post has been edited to reflect a statement from Freeman CEO Paula Baker.)

A few moments after the initial Turner Report post that he was coming to Freeman Health in a leadership position, Freeman President/CEO Paula Baker announced Tom Keller, president and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare will be her successor.

Baker's statement was posted on the KOAM website:

“I am excited about the appointment of Tom Keller to the role of President/CEO of Freeman Health System,” Baker states. “I am confident Mr. Keller will continue to build on Freeman’s success. I look forward to working with him during the transition period.”

The timing of the announcement was not done on Freeman officials' timetable.

A post on the Ozarks Healthcare Facebook page made it clear that Keller was taking a top job at Freeman. 

After a decade of dedicated service to Ozarks Healthcare and the surrounding community, Tom Keller, President and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare, has announced his resignation. Keller will be stepping into a new leadership role at Freeman Health System in Missouri, effective December 1.

Throughout his tenure, Keller has played a pivotal role in unifying and expanding the Ozarks Healthcare (OZH) Medical Group. Under his leadership, the group grew not only on the primary care side, but also a diverse range of highly specialized providers, ensuring that patients across the Ozarks have access to comprehensive and specialized care close to home.

Keller’s vision also drove the development of the new Medical Office Building and a refreshed branding initiative, both of which underscore Ozarks Healthcare's mission to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the Ozarks. 

His efforts extended beyond the hospital walls, leading to the expansion of rural clinics, retail pharmacies, and the Zizzer Clinic, along with the successful implementation of a unified electronic medical records system that has improved patient care and streamlined operations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Keller’s steady leadership was crucial in guiding the hospital through unprecedented challenges, while maintaining a focus on patient care and community health.
"Tom has been more than just a leader—he has been an integral part of our community. His three children graduated from West Plains High School, embodying the spirit of 'Once a Zizzer, always a Zizzer.' While we are saddened to see him go, we are encouraged to know he will continue to serve the people of Missouri in his new role," Melissa Stewart, Chair of the Ozarks Healthcare Board of Directors, said.

The Ozarks Healthcare Board of Directors will soon begin a comprehensive search for the next CEO. More information on this process will be provided in the coming weeks.

The entire Ozarks Healthcare team extends its deepest gratitude to Tom Keller for his exceptional leadership and service and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.

Baker announced her retirement in a January 25 e-mail to employees:

Dear Freeman Family,

Because I know word travels quickly, I wanted you to hear this news directly from me.

Today marks a significant milestone for me as I announce my intent to retire at the end of a one-year notice period. 

After 13 years as the President and CEO of Freeman Health System, the time has come for me to step into a new chapter of life. As all of you parents will understand, my son will be finishing high school before I can turn around and I want quality time with him. Reflecting on this remarkable journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the unwavering support, the countless memories, and the remarkable accomplishments we have achieved together as we fulfill our most sacred mission.

During my tenure as CEO, we have witnessed unparalleled growth within Freeman Health System. Through the collective efforts of our exceptional team, we have expanded our services, bolstered our workforce, and witnessed substantial increases in revenue. These achievements stand as a testament to the unwavering commitment and passion that each and every one of you has brought to the table. Together, we have transformed challenges into opportunities and obstacles into triumphs.

As I look back on our journey, I am filled with pride for the impact we have made in the healthcare industry and the lives we have touched within our region. The growth and success we have achieved together have been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am immensely proud of all of you.

As I step into retirement next year, I carry with me the cherished memories of the moments we have shared, the challenges we have overcome, and the victories we have celebrated. I am confident that the spirit of excellence and dedication that defines Freeman Health System will continue to thrive in the capable hands of those who will lead it into the future.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your CEO, and for the countless memories that I will forever hold dear. I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to lead such an exceptional team. Your dedication, hard work and consistent support have been the driving force behind our accomplishments. I look forward to witnessing the continued success and growth of Freeman Health System, and I am grateful to have been a part of its remarkable journey.

Please know that I will be at the helm through my year long notice period. We still have much to accomplish in the upcoming months.

The Board of Directors of Freeman Health System will begin the search for the new President/CEO. We will definitely keep you updated as progress is made in this endeavor.

Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.

Jury finds Joplin man guilty of kidnapping, stalking woman

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Joplin, Mo., man who earlier pleaded guilty in a separate kidnapping case has been convicted at trial by a federal jury, along with his accomplice, of kidnapping a woman who was rescued from her attacker at a Neosho, Mo., hotel room.

The Turner Report: Probable cause: Joplin man violates protection order, kidnaps, chokes, pistol whips and threatens to kill woman at Neosho hotel (rturner229.blogspot.com)

Freddie Lewis Tilton, 51, of Joplin, Mo., and Alvin Dale Boyer, 39, of Rogers, Arkansas, were found guilty on Tuesday, September 17, of one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and one count of kidnapping. Tilton was also convicted of one count of stalking. This is Tilton’s second conviction in a federal kidnapping case.

Evidence introduced during the trial demonstrated that Tilton and Boyer conspired on July 18 and 19, 2020, to kidnap the victim, identified in court documents as “S.T.”

An employee at Boonslick Lodge in Neosho called police at approximately 11:46 p.m. on July 19, 2020, to report that a woman was being choked and dragged into a room. A police officer knocked on the door of the room, and S.T., bloody and injured, opened the door, and ran out of the room. Tilton had jumped out the back window and escaped.

Boyer rented a room at the motel and invited S.T. to the motel to spend time with him. Unknown to S.T., Boyer had rented the motel room for Tilton and Tilton was waiting in the room for her. S.T. had separated from Tilton and had an ex parte order of protection against him. When S.T. entered the room, she was assaulted by Tilton. S.T. was observed on video surveillance struggling to get out of the room, but she was dragged back in by Tilton. Tilton struck S.T. repeatedly with a firearm and his fist. Tilton attempted to shoot S.T., but the gun jammed. S.T. was assaulted inside the room by Tilton for over eight minutes before law enforcement arrived.

Tilton escaped out of a window inside the motel room with a handgun. Tilton attempted to climb down a vertical rain gutter, but fell to the ground as the guttering broke then ran away.

Officers searched the motel room and found numerous indications that a violent, physical assault had taken place inside the room. In addition to blood on the room floor and door, officers found a chair with rope and zip ties attached, more nylon rope and zip ties, duct tape, a pair of pliers, a blowtorch and lighter fluid, a butane torch, drop cloths, plastic gloves, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a Kimber .223-caliber semi-automatic rifle.

S.T. was transported to a hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., deliberated for one hour and 32 minutes before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, ending a trial that began Monday, Sept. 16.

Under federal statutes, Tilton and Boyer each are subject to a sentence of up to life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ami Harshad Miller and Anthony Brown. It was investigated by the FBI and the Neosho, Mo., Police Department.

USA v. Tilton, et al

In addition to today’s trial conviction, Tilton has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing for his role in a kidnapping just a few days earlier, which resulted in the torture and death of the victim, and for illegally possessing firearms.

Four co-defendants pleaded guilty in that case and have been sentenced. Amy Kay Thomas, 41, of Webb City, Mo., was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison without parole. James B. Gibson, also known as “Gibby,” 42, of Neosho, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison without parole. Russell Eugene Hurtt, also known as “Uncle,” 52, of Greenwood, Mo., was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole. Lawrence William Vaughan, also known as “Scary Larry,” 53, of Neosho, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole.

Additionally, Carla Jo Ward, 50, of Joplin, pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3, 2024.

Tilton admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to kidnap the victim, identified as “M.H.,” in July 2020. Tilton offered Ward and Vaughan $5,000 each to locate and secure M.H. for him. Ward picked up M.H., whom she knew was being sought by Tilton, and took him to Vaughan’s residence.

Tilton, Thomas, and Gibson arrived at Vaughan’s residence in the early morning hours of July 15, 2020. They bound M.H.’s hands with handcuffs, and duct tape was placed around his mouth and other parts of his body. Gibson, Thomas, and others assaulted M.H. for a period of time. M.H. was cut, beaten, and shot at. Gibson burned M.H. with a blowtorch. Tilton fatally shot M.H. in the head. Thomas and others cleaned up the blood and damage created during the assault and shooting of M.H. They wrapped M.H.’s body in plastic wrap and Thomas, Tilton, and Gibson transported it to Hurtt’s property.

Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hurtt’s property on July 28, 2020, based on information that a deceased body was located on the acreage. When officers attempted to contact the occupants of the residence, Tilton fired multiple shots from inside the residence at the officers. Tilton was apprehended.

Officers found M.H.’s body on the property. Officers searched the residence and found a Rigarmi .25-caliber pistol, an Ithaca .22-caliber rifle, a Remington .22-caliber rifle without a serial number, a Harrington and Richardson 12-gauge shotgun, a Ruger 9mm handgun, and a Taurus 9mm handgun without a serial number.

The Turner Report: Federal grand jury indicts six Joplin, Neosho, Webb City residents on murder/kidnapping conspiracy charges (rturner229.blogspot.com)

Five Missouri, Kansas members of Congress send tough critique of troubled mail service to D.C.

By Tim Carpenter

Kansas Reflector

Three Missouri and two Kansas members of Congress serving constituents in the greater Kansas City area forwarded a joint letter Tuesday to the U.S. Postal Service demanding action to rectify problems with missing or delayed mail and protracted periods in which no mail was delivered at all.

Republicans Sam Graves and Mark Alford, both of Missouri, and Jake LaTurner of Kansas as well as Democrats Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri and Sharice Davids of Kansas forwarded the letter to USPS postmaster general Louis DeJoy. They pointed to the July federal audit of the Kansas City Postal and Distribution Center in Kansas City, Missouri, and stations in Hickman Mills in Missouri as well as in Mission and Kansas City on the Kansas side of the border.

Deficiencies at the distribution center touched on mail clearance times, delayed mail, late cancellations and dock scanning during an inspection period in May, USPS auditors said. The report said challenges at the three stations included document scanning, delayed mail and property conditions.

The inspector general concluded USPS ought to address problems with employee staffing and recommended supervisors prepare better for staff absences in the Kansas City region.

“The audit makes clear that the USPS must do more to ensure Kansans receive reliable, timely mail delivery,” said Davids, who is seeking reelection in the 3rd District of Johnson and Wyandotte counties. “I will keep working across the aisle with my colleagues in the KC area to help fix these issues and ensure our postal service meets the needs of our communities.”

In recent months, the letter said, all five congressional offices received a growing number of complaints regarding inadequate mail service.

“It is unacceptable that these facilities … are failing to keep up with the USPS standard of service,” the bipartisan letter from U.S. House members said. “We wholeheartedly urge the leadership of the Postal Service to roll out the recommendations of the USPS office of the inspector general immediately.”

The federal lawmakers said USPS ought to implement strategies to mitigate mail delays, ensure compliance with processing procedures, improve delivery logistics, and upgrade safety and security policies for staff at the mail facilities.

The representatives said residents of communities across Kansas and Missouri relied on consistent mail service and deserved better support from USPS management.

Lame-duck Missouri governor still raising campaign cash with the help of lobbyist

By Jason Hancock

Missouri Independent

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is the guest of honor Tuesday night at a fundraiser for a pair of PACs at the home of a longtime Jefferson City lobbyist.

The event is being advertised as a “celebration of public service” for the Republican governor and First Lady Teresa Parson. It’s hosted by Steve Tilley, a longtime lobbyist and adviser for Parson. It coincides with Parson’s 69th birthday.

Some of the invitations ask for donations to Uniting Missouri PAC, the political action committee created to bolster Parson’s political career.

 

For the last two years, Uniting Missouri has mostly existed to bankroll Parson’s trips to the Super Bowl. But in the weeks leading up to the GOP primary, it spent several hundred thousand dollars supporting the candidacies of Mike Kehoe for governor and Andrew Bailey for attorney general.

Parson is leaving the governor’s office in January because of term limits, and he has repeatedly said he has no intention of ever running for office again.

Other invitations to Tuesday night’s gathering seek to raise money for Missouri Prospers PAC, which was formed last week by Tilley’s son-in-law.

Missouri Prospers is one of a constellation of political action committees connected to Tilley, a former Missouri House speaker who became a lobbyist after resigning from office in 2012.

For years, Tilley’s lobbying clients have spread donations among six PACs associated with him and his firm. The PACs then donate that money to candidates.

It’s a practice that’s drawn criticism from those who see it as a way to skirt limits on how much a candidate can accept from an individual or PAC, as well as a ban on direct corporate contribution to candidates.

 

And in the past it’s drawn scrutiny from federal law enforcement. The FBI began looking into utility contracts in Independence after four Tilley-connected PACs donated to the city’s mayor just days before a key vote.

Each of the PACs had received money from a company connected to one of the contacts.

No charges have ever been filed in any matter involving Tilley, and he has long denied any wrongdoing.

Parson and Tilley have been friends for years, going back more than a decade to when they served together in the Missouri House.

When Tilley resigned from office to become a lobbyist, he still had more than $1 million in his campaign committee. He invested a big portion of it in a Perryville bank, and later used the money to donate to candidates, such as Parson, who would then hire Tilley as a campaign consultant.

Lawmakers felt Tilley had found a loophole in Missouri’s campaign finance laws, ultimately taking aim at his practices by passing legislation in 2016 requiring elected officials to dissolve their campaign committees when they register with the Missouri Ethics Commission as lobbyists.

Since then, Tilley has been a prolific fundraiser for Parson and Uniting Missouri. At one point during the 2020 election cycle, a quarter of the governor’s campaign funds could be connected to Tilley.

And Parson’s years in office have been lucrative for Tilley.

Before Parson took over as governor in June 2018, following the resignation of former Gov. Eric Greitens, Tilley had 25 lobbying clients. A year into Parson’s first term, that number had ballooned to more than 70.

Murderer of Joplin woman sentenced to 15 years

(From the Webb City Police Department)

On Monday, September 16, 2024 Nicholas K. Berry plead GUILTY to Murder - 2nd Degree in the homicide of Maria L. Whitaker. Berry has been sentenced to 15-years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

 
We would like to thank everyone who helped with the investigation and successful prosecution of this case. We pray that this verdict gives the Whitaker family closure in Maria's death.

April 12, 2023 news release

On Tuesday, April 11, 2023 an autopsy was conducted on the victim in this death investigation. The victim has been identified as Maria L. Whitaker, a 39-year-old Hispanic female from Joplin, Missouri. The medical examiner has ruled that Whitaker’s death was the result of a homicide.

 
Detectives with the Webb City Police Department have identified Nicholas Kyle Berry, a 51-year-old black male from Branson, Missouri as a suspect in this homicide. Charges of Murder in the First Degree, Armed Criminal Action, and Robbery in the First Degree against Berry have been forwarded to the Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office. Berry is not currently in custody and should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact your local authorities if you know the whereabouts of Nicholas Berry.
A photo of Berry has been added to this and the original post.

These charges are merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Original news release

On Sunday, April 9, 2023, at 03:22 hours, officers with the Webb City Police Department were called to the 1000 block of West First Street in Webb City in reference to a disturbance. Upon their arrival, officers found a 39-year-old Hispanic female from Joplin unresponsive. 

Officers began CPR until EMS arrived on scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased. Due to the apparent manner of death, we are investigating this as a homicide. An autopsy has been scheduled for Tuesday, April 11th. Additional victim information will be released upon notification of next of kin.

 
Investigators from the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control are on scene assisting our Detectives with this investigation. We believe this to be an isolated incident as it appears that the victim was targeted. It is still early in our investigation and will be releasing information as it becomes appropriate.

Attorney asks for delay in Rocco Joseph hit-and-run hearing, says it conflicts with midterm tests

It appears likely that the first appearance for Rocco Joseph, 18, Joplin, on a felony charge of leaving the scene of a fatal accident will be pushed back at least a week.

The hearing, currently scheduled for 1 p.m. October 7, conflicts with the mid-terms at Joseph's college, according to a motion filed Friday in Cherokee County, Kansas District Court.

Mr. Joseph attends college in Mississippi and the week of October 7th he is scheduled to take a number of mid-term tests. Mr. Joseph requests that the first appearance be moved to sometime of the week of October 14, 2024.

The motion for a continuance, which was filed by attorney Thomas J. Bath, Leawood, Kansas, is not opposed by the Cherokee County district attorney.

Joseph and his father. John Joseph II, a Joplin dentist, are both charged with leaving the scene of a fatal crash in connection with the August 19, 2023, hit-and-run that killed Gary LaTurner, 60, Galena, Kansas. The elder Joseph is also charged with "contributing to a child's misconduct or deprivation."

Reportedly, Cherokee County District Attorney Kurt Benecke is alleging Dr. Joseph was the driver of another vehicle that arrived on the scene following the accident, then left without doing anything for LaTurner.

Dr. Joseph's charging document says he "did unlawfully, feloniously or knowingly cause or encourage a child under 18 years of age {Rocco Joseph} to commit an act which if committed by an adult would be a felony, to wit: leaving the scene of a fatality accident."

Dr. Joseph's initial appearance is also scheduled for 1 p.m. October 7.

Early Christmas shoppers arrested at Lamar Walmart, stealing, meth charges filed

Two early Christmas shoppers who allegedly loaded more than $1,500 worth of merchandise in a shopping cart and left the Lamar Walmart without paying, are facing felony charges.

The Barton County Prosecuting Attorney's office charged David L. Taylor, (DOB 1975) Springfield, and Sarah J. Brown (DOB 1980) Pleasant Hill, with stealing, while Taylor was also cited for delivering a controlled substance.

According to the probable cause statement, Lamar Police were already suspicious something was going on when they came across a Mazda 6 in the Walmart parking lot with a plastic bag covering the license plate. While the car was being investigated, an alarm went off from the fire door at Walmart and Taylor and Brown emerged from the store running with a full shopping cart.

When they were approached by the police, Taylor allegedly pushed the cart aggressively toward a police officer, according to the statement. After the officer dodged the cart, both suspects surrendered.

Brown told police they were Christmas shopping for their kids.

As Taylor was taken into custody, police discovered a large crystal rock that weighed 8.47 grams and field tested positive for methamphetamine.

Detention hearing scheduled for Joplin woman on meth trafficking, weapons charges

A Tuesday detention hearing has been scheduled for Tiffany Nicole Henson-Bruenn, 37, Joplin, who waived the reading of her incident today in U. S. District Court in Springfield and pleaded not guilty to meth trafficking and possession of a weapon in furtherance of meth trafficking.

The indictment against Henson-Bruenn, stems from a March 20 Joplin Police Department traffic stop. The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed drug trafficking charges against Henson-Bruenn at that time.

More information about the case can be found at the link below:

The Turner Report: Joplin woman indicted on meth trafficking, weapons charges (rturner229.blogspot.com)

9-month old Newtonia boy clinging to life at Children's Mercy Hospital, mom's boyfriend charged with child abuse

A 9-month-old Newtonia boy is clinging to life at Children's Mercy Hospital and his mother's fiancee was arrested for child abuse after he allegedly administered the abuse Saturday that left the child in critical condition.

Jordan Leon Boggess, 28, was arraigned today in Newton County Circuit Court. A bond reduction hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. October 1.

From the probable cause statement:

On 09/14/2024 at or around 19:48 Newton County Central Dispatch received a 911 call from (name redacted) in reference to a 9-month-old child who was not conscious and not breathing. 

The child was transported to Freeman West Hospital in Joplin and then transferred to Children's Mercy in Kansas City. 

Nursing staff with Children's Mercy Hospital contacted the sheriff's office in reference to the child. They saíd the child was too critical to do a full-body x-ray, but there was noticeable bruising along the Child's forehead and left ear. They said they did a CT scan on the child and discovered two small brain bleeds, bilatéral pneumothorax and bruising to the lungs. 

I responded to the résidence where deputies were located. We were able to contact Jordan Boggess who was asleep inside the residence. Jordan was identified as the child's mother's fiancé. Jordan agreed to voluntarily come to the sheriff's office for an interview.

During a mirandized, recorded interview, Jordan disclosed the following information. Jordan said he. was lying in bed watching tv when the child's mother got up and went to the restroom. He said the mother placed the child in a "jumper." 

Jordan said the child had vomited and ·was screaming. Jordan had said that was all that happened. Jordan then said he picked the child up from out of the jumper and began to "toss him in the air" trying to "comfort" him. 

Jordan said that was all that happened. 

Jordan then admitted that the child fell to the ground the second time he "tossed" him in the air. Jordan said his hands were sweaty because it was warm inside the residence and that is why the child fell to the ground. 

Jordan said the child fell on his head. Jordan said that was all that happened. 

Jordan then admitted after the child fell on the floor he panicked and "bear hugged" the child "a little hard" until he stopped sçreaming. Jordan asked if it was tight and he said yes. Jordan admitted he might have. hurt him when he squeezed him, Jordan said he squeezed him during the "bear hug" on the baby's torso. 

Jordan was asked "so what happened to him up at the hospital is a result ·of what happened with you''--·and Jordan shook his head· yes.

Jordán also first denied picking the child up with his hands around his torso, but then later on his said he might have. 

Newton County Detectives responded to Children's Mercy Hospital. The attending Doctor said the preliminary findings was the child had "abusive head trauma," multi planar bruising, bilateral subdural hemorrhage, and additional work··up and diagnosis was pending. 

Detectives said the child is sedated and further information may not be known for weeks due to the child's critical condition. The Doctor did confirm the child suffered from physical abuse. Jordan was taken into custody and turned over to the Newton-County Jail where he was placed on a 24-hour hold.

Eric Burlison: Treatment of January 6 "political prisoners" is "heartbreaking"

(From Seventh District Congressman Eric Burlison)

On Monday, I attended Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene’s hearing examining the inhumane treatment of January 6 political prisoners. 

At the hearing, I was able to ask the witnesses several questions relating to the events of January 6 and the weaponization of the federal government against its own citizens. 

The witnesses included a January 6 defendant, two wives of January 6 defendants, two investigative journalists, and two attorneys who have represented January 6 defendants in court.

It was heartbreaking to hear the stories of these individuals and how the government has weaponized our legal system to go after individuals exercising their First Amendment rights.

Later that day, I tried to visit the D.C. jail so I could join my colleague Rep. Josh Brecheen to see firsthand the conditions the January 6 defendants are being held under. Unfortunately, the jail said that they wouldn’t let me in because they “didn’t have room.”

Neosho R-5 Board to consider spending $359,000 for video scoreboard for Bob Anderson Stadium

The Neosho R-5 Board of Education appears to be poised to spend $359,321 for a digital scoreboard for Bob Anderson Stadium.

The proposal is included in the board's packet for its 5:30 p.m. Monday meeting.

According to a description provided in the board packet, the package includes $263,821 for the 19 x 35 scoreboard, $85,000 for removal and fabrication, $5,500 for 25-second clocks with game time and $5,000 for moving and reinstalling sound equipment.

The cost also includes a "gold level animation and graphics package and an 11-year warranty for parts with a five-year warranty for onsite labor.

The agenda also includes reports on fine arts and from the professional development committee, approval of change orders and a closed session.

Neosho R-5 Board scheduled to approve 14 hirings, three resignations

During its 5:30 p.m. Monday meeting, the Neosho R-5 Board of Education is scheduled to hire 14 people and accept three resignations.

Hirings

Effective August 19. 2024
Amber Hamilton - Bus Driver - Transportation

Effective September 3, 2024
Melissa Finley - Building Custodian - Operations

Effective September 13, 2024
Lalissa Fretwell - Building Secretary - Carver Elementary

Resignations

Effective August 19, 2024
Kathryn Taylor - MLL Teacher - Neosho High School

Effective August 20, 2024
Joali Ornelas - Classroom Aide - Carver Elementary

Effective August 21, 2024
Renee Lewis - Reading Interventionist - Carver Elementary (550 hours)
James Otey - Bus Driver - Transportation
Dalton Sprague - Bus Driver - Transportation
Leslie Carr - Physical Therapist - Special Services
Candice Lacey - Physical Therapist Assistant - Special Services
Jenna Bell - Building Custodian - Operations

Effective August 26, 2024
Crystal Houdashell - Bus Driver - Transportation

Effective August 28, 2024
Ashley Dykes - MLL Paraprofessional - Goodman/RISE Elementary

Effective September 4, 2024
Sierra Shoemaker - Classroom Aide - Goodman Elementary
Abby Gayle Overby - Bus Driver - Transportation

Effective September 5, 2024
Jamie Harmon - FBLA Stipend - Neosho Junior High

Effective September 9, 2024
Teresa Evans - Reading Interventionist - Carver Elementary (550 hours)

Effective September 11, 2024
Ken Albious - Student Aide - Carver Elementary

Effective September 23, 2024
Brittney Pitcher - SPED Paraprofessional - Goodman Elementary

Nancy Hughes: Putting gods before God

“You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3 (NIV)

A glance at the clock, as I sat down and opened my Bible for much-needed moments with the Lord, showed almost 8 am – more than enough time to dig in His Word before I met a friend for lunch. I looked at the curtains pulled across my glass doors to the deck. “I’ll pull them open,” I thought. “Much nicer to see God’s creation during prayer time.”

And the view was better . . . except for the handprints on the glass. Several sprays of Windex and swipes with paper towels cleaned up my view even more. As I turned to go back to my quiet time, I noticed a cob web. “Good grief! What if someone came to visit and saw that thing hanging down!” my mind winced. It didn’t take long to remove the offending web, but it had friends in the corners of my living room so as long as I was getting rid of one, I decided to clean the rest of the room.

I sat down and picked up my Bible and realized I didn’t have a pen or paper to take notes. As I scooped up a pad of paper on my computer desk, it occurred to me that I hadn’t wished my friends “happy birthday” on Facebook so I took just a few minutes to get that done.

I found a pen in a drawer by the kitchen sink but I also noticed all the dirty dishes so I rinsed them and put them in the dishwasher. As I sat back down in my chair, I again glanced at the clock and was shocked to see that over two hours had passed since I first opened my Bible for prayer time!

What was more important than a face to face, intimate conversation with God my Father? Clean glass doors and no cobwebs and a loaded dishwasher. I put household chores before the Creator of the Universe. God was not my first priority of the day. To be honest, He wasn’t my first priority at all.

As I sat in silence, one of the Ten Commandments spoke to my heart. “You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3. Surely household chores or getting on Facebook aren’t gods? They are simply things that need to be done . . .right? Sure . . . unless. Unless I allow them to take first place in my life.

Now, just to be clear, I know we all have those days when a daughter is throwing up, a son can’t find his shoe and the bus is coming, and the washer is broken – all BEFORE 8 am. And our only prayer is “Get me through the next five minutes, Lord!” Believe me, I get it.

But if we are continually putting daily activities before the Lord, they have indeed become idols – in other words, gods – because they have taken His place of importance in our lives. My encouragement for all of us today - and every day - is to do a daily heart check. Are there any “gods” in your life moving up your priority list each day as your time with the Lord moves down?

If so, decide today – this minute – to re-evaluate what holds first place in your life. If it’s your time with the Creator, fantastic! If it isn’t, see what you can change to make sure you are never putting gods before God.

Lord, I want you to have first place in my life. Please show me those things I need to rearrange so I can spend time with you daily. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

R.A.P. it up

Reflect

Look over your last few weeks of being in the Word and having prayer time with the Lord.

How many times have you put activities before Him?

Apply

Before bed, make a “to do” list for the next day.

Rearrange activities to make time with the Lord a priority.

Power

Exodus 20:3 (NIV) “You shall have no other gods before me.”

Proverbs 3:6 (NIV) “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Matthew 26:40 (NIV) “Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. ‘Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?’ he asked Peter.”

(For more of Nancy Hughes' writing, check out her blog, Encouragement from the War Room.)

Judge denies bond reduction for Joplin man charged with eight counts of animal abuse

A bond reduction hearing is scheduled for 8:15 a.m. Wednesday in Jasper County Circuit Court, Joplin, for Seth William Vaile, 30, who is charged with eight misdemeanor counts of animal abuse.

Judge Joseph Hensley rejected a request by Vaile to have his bond, which is $10,000 cash or surety, reduced during his arraignment Friday.

Vaile allegedly left a sealed tote with eight puppies in it at the Joplin Humane Society. The puppies died from heat exhaustion according to a veterinarian.

The Turner Report: Probable cause: Joplin man admits to leaving 8 puppies in sealed tote bag leading to their deaths (rturner229.blogspot.com)

Ben Baker: Eating pets is just the beginning if terrible immigration policy continues

President Donald Trump's mention of Haitian immigrants eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio, a story Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, and Springfield city officials say has no basis in truth, continues to gain traction among his followers and other GOP politicians, including Rep. Ben Baker, R-Neosho, who was spreading the story even before the debate.

In an X post from the morning of the debate, Baker, whose daughter and son-in-law were murdered by gang members May 23 while serving as missionaries to Haiti, expressed his thoughts on Haiti and the Biden Administration's immigration policy:

The Biden/Harris administration is directly responsible for importing Haitian immigrants here completely unvetted. You can’t expect those that all they know is a lawless culture to assimilate to the American way of life and respect our values. Many of these that are now here are murderers who kill just to kill. 

I know this very well from the brutal tragedy that happened with my daughter and son-in-law. They practice voodoo and some even cannibalism. They worship Satan. 

Now everybody is upset because of their pets being eaten by the Haitians, but it will be much worse than that if this terrible immigration policy is allowed to continue. The only recourse you have is to protect yourself. 

People better wake up and start voting for those that will fix this mess instead of those starting the fires that’s burning this country down and importing the third world by the thousands. Too many great men and women fought and died for what we have for this great country to be in shambles like it is.

@realDonaldTrump promised me he would fix it and I believe him. Vote Trump or this country will never recover from this mess. 

That’s the bottom line.

The Biden/Harris administration is directly responsible for importing Haitian immigrants here completely unvetted. You can’t expect those that all they know is a lawless culture to assimilate to the American way of life and respect our values. Many of these that are now here are…

— Ben Baker (@BenBakerMO) September 10, 2024

Joplin Police Department remembers Timothy Nielson on 20th anniversary of his death

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Today we remember Officer Timothy Nielson and the ultimate sacrifice he made on September 13th, 2004. 

Officer Timothy Nielson succumbed to injuries sustained one month earlier when a house exploded as a result of being filled with natural gas. Officer Nielson and another officer had responded to 904 S. McKinley Avenue to investigate reports of a suicidal man. 

When the officers arrived, they located the man in the backyard, but he suddenly ran into the house. The officers followed him into the house and were inside for several minutes when the house exploded. 

Officer Nielson sustained burns to 45% of his body and was partially trapped in the wreckage of the home. The other officer sustained burns to 30% of his body and remained in critical condition for several weeks. 

The investigation revealed that, prior to the arrival of the officers, the suspect had disconnected the natural gas line from his stove and turned the valve on to its highest setting. The house filled with gas while the man was outside.

 

After the officers chased the man into the home, one of the officers fired a taser at the man. The spark from the taser may have caused the gas to ignite, resulting in the explosion.

Officer Timothy Nielson had served with the Joplin Police Department for 4 years. He is survived by his wife, two children, parents, and siblings.

Lawsuit alleges priests at Joplin, Carthage, Neosho parishes molested children

A lawsuit filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri alleges priests at numerous southwest Missouri parishes, including St. Mary's in Joplin, St. Ann's in Carthage and St. Canera's in Neosho molested children.

The suit was filed by 10 people, all of whom are listed only by their initials, who are adults now, but say they were molested when they were children.

Listed as defendants in the lawsuit are the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and Bishop Edward M. Rice.

The petition not only alleges sexual abuse of children, but says the abuse was covered up by church officials.

The coverup spanned decades, according to the petition.

For many decades, the Diocese has known of the sexual abuse perpetrated upon its young parishioners and children in the community by several of its employees, agents, servants, priests, reverends, brothers, nuns, teachers, chaplains, or other persons acting at the behest of, in the course and scope of employment of, and under the control of the Diocese and Bishop. 

Defendants often transferred the perpetrator to a different location within the Diocese and/or the Catholic Church or sent him away for treatment before returning him to unsupervised access to children. To the extent it published anything at all about this misconduct, the Defendants often came to the defense of the perpetrator even in the face of known sexual abuse.

The following cases are taken from the petition:

Sexual Abuse of J. B.
 

J.B. was born on November 20, 1979 and lived in Neosho, Missouri at the time of the abuse set forth herein. J.B. attended S. Canera’s Catholic Church in Neosho, Missouri. J.B. was raised in a devoutly Catholic family. She attended church every Sunday and was confirmed and had her first communion at St. Canera’s Catholic Church. 

J.B.’s parents raised her to respect, trust, and obey the Catholic Church and its employees. She was taught by both her parents and the Church that priests were the ultimate authority and were to be trusted inherently. 

J.B. was an altar server for many years, beginning when she was 9 or ten years old. When Plaintiff became a teenager, Fr. Harth took an interest to her. He began taking her to the room where the altar servers got ready. When there were no other children present, Fr. Harth would kiss her, touch her breasts and genitals. 

On one occasion, Fr. Harth had a newspaper clipping of Plaintiff playing basketball and asked Plaintiff to come by and get a copy from him. When she arrived, he kissed her and fondled her again. These events occurred at least monthly for approximately three years. Plaintiff told her mother in approximately 2019. Her mother, who is now deceased, reported the abuse to the Diocese but no action was taken and the Diocese has never reached out to her to conduct any kind of investigation.  

Plaintiff engaged in psychological coping mechanisms that prevented her from ascertaining the injuries from the abuse or its wrongfulness.

Sexual Abuse of E. R.

E.R.. was born on April 17, 1962 and lived in Neosho, Missouri at the time of abuse. E.R. was raised in a Catholic family that attended church every Sunday. Plaintiff’s mother was very involved in the church and frequently volunteered. Plaintiff was baptized and received first communion at St. Canera’s Catholic Church in Neosho. At all relevant times, St. Canera’s was under the direct supervision, employ, and Diocese and Bishop. 

Between 1968 and 1970, Plaintiff was abused on multiple occasions by Fr. Reeker and Fr. Tom McCarthy. On those occasions, Fr. Reeker would babysit Plaintiff at the Rectory. Sometimes, Fr. Reeker would bathe Plaintiff and use the occasion to molest him and fondle him. Reeker also abused him in other rooms of the rectory. 

Fr. McCarthy also abused Plaintiff. Usually that would occur at McCarthy’s home. There, McCarthy would bathe and fondle the plaintiff. McCarthy also took his clothing off and required Plaintiff to fondle his genitals. 

On at least one occasion, Plaintiff’s parents arrived early and McCarthy and Reeker quickly dressed the boy stating that they had bathed claimant. At all relevant times, St. Canera’s Catholic Church and rectory were under the direct supervision, employ, and control of Defendants Diocese and Bishop.

Plaintiff told his father of the abuse early on but his father became irate and he never spoke of the abuse again. Plaintiff also told Fr. Reeker that Fr. McCarthy was abusing him but Fr. Reeker took no action. Plaintiff engaged psychological coping mechanisms that prevented him from ascertaining his injuries or their cause.

Sexual Abuse of M. D.

M.D. was born on September 15, 1967 and lived in Joplin, Missouri when Msgr. John Westheus sexually abused him. M.D. attended Catholic school and St. Mary Parish for mass on Sundays. He served as an altar boy for three or four years. 

Msgr. Westheus touched Plaintiff’s genitals, performed oral sex on Plaintiff and forced Plaintiff to perform oral sex on the Priest on approximately 8 to 10 occasions. 

As a child, Plaintiff told his father. His father did not believe him and as punishment made the boy hold a Bible out in the air until he was exhausted. 

After that, Plaintiff told no one.

Sexual Abuse of V. F.

V.F. was born on January 29, 1968. He resided in Carthage, Missouri at the time he was abused by an unknown priest at St. Ann’s in Carthage. The Priest had an office at St. Ann’s, was heavier set, average height, older and had grey hair. 

Plaintiff attended 8th grade at St. Ann’s. While he was there, the Priests called him a “charity case” who was at their mercy and if he broke any rule he would be suspended. He was at St. Ann’s because he had been kicked out of public school. 

At all relevant times, St. Ann’s was under the direct supervision, employ, and control of Defendants Diocese and Bishop. The abuse occurred when the Priest called Plaintiff into his office in the rectory at St. Ann’s. There, the priest pulled down Plaintiff’s pants, fondled and Plaintiff and tried to force Plaintiff to touch him. The Priest also demanded oral sex and performed oral sex on the boy. 

These abuses occurred approximately 10-12 times over the course of that school year.

Plaintiff never told anyone of the abuse.

The lawsuit also details alleged sexual abuse of plaintiffs in Kimberling City, Poplar Bluff, Malden, Springfield, Advance and West Plains.

The nine-count lawsuit alleges the following:

-Intentional failure to supervise clergy

-Negligent failure to supervise children and report sexual abuse

-Breach of special relationship/duty

-Fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud

-Fraudulent misrepresentation

-Constructive fraud

-Intentional infliction of emotional distress

-Aiding and abetting/ratification

The plaintiffs are asking for a jury trial and compenstatory, statutory and punitive damages, interest and expenses.

They are represented by attorney Rebecca M. Randles of Randles Mata, Kansas City.

(Note: Initially an address was included for the Neosho church that was incorrectly stated in the lawsuit. The address has been removed.)