A new felony charge of leaving the scene of a fatality accident was filed against Rocco Joseph, 18, Joplin, Friday, the same day that felony charges were filed against his father, Joplin dentist John H. Joseph II, also accusing him of leaving the scene and "contributing to a child's misconduct or deprivation."
Confusion about which one was driving August 19, 2023 when Gary LaTurner was killed was caused by the wording in the Cherokee County charging documents for both men. The charge against Rocco Joseph, shown in the upper left hand corner, says he was "the driver of a motor vehicle that was involved in an accident that resulted in the death of a person."
The same wording was used in John Joseph's charging document.
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."
I sure hope these people are prosecuted appropriately.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I understand it wasn't a fatality accident until several hours later. Meaning Mr. LaTurner laid there injured & suffering, until he could no longer hold on. This is so much more than leaving the scene of a fatality accident. And their charges should reflect that.
ReplyDeleteSo it’s even worse than people thought. Actively corrupting his son. What a creep.
ReplyDeleteI'm just glad that this is not being over looked ,my uncle was a very good man and possibly could have been saved if they would a at least called it in period
ReplyDeleteIf even half these allegations are true, they need to be convicted and then LOCKED UP!
ReplyDeleteIt is time for Justice, Not Probation or a Slap on the Wrist and Community Service or Buying your way out of Trouble - this Situation deserves Jail Time. I hope that the Judge, Prosecuting Attorney, and Jurors have the Morals to do the Right Thing and see that Gary LaTurner and his Family - receives the Justice he deserves and sends a Message - No One is Above the Law!
ReplyDeleteI believe the Joseph's think they are indestructible. Money gets them everywhere. Hopefully they will be knocked down by this verdict.
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