Carl Junction Police Department closes investigation into firefighter's death, prosecutor won't file charges

The Carl Junction Police Department's investigation into an October 19 incident on Fairway Drive that killed Tucker Berry, 21, a firefighter with the Redings Mill and Lockwood fire departments, has concluded, according to a post on the department's Facebook page.

A case was presented to the Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office, but the prosecutor elected not to file charges, according to the post:

On October 19th, around 6:00 p.m., a tragic incident occurred on Fairway Drive, leading to the death of a Redings Mill firefighter.

The Carl Junction Police Department actively investigated the incident and presented a case to the Jasper County Prosecutor's Office, who declined to file charges at this time.

We would like to thank the many people who came forward as witnesses and provided information/evidence to us, and the other agencies that assisted in our investigation.

In an October 24 Facebook post, the police department asked for the public's help and posted photos of two golf carts that were involved in the incident, which occurred in the area of Briarbook Golf Course.

Eagle-Picher announces $20 million expansion, 100 new jobs

(From Missouri Department of Economic Development)

EaglePicher Technologies, a leader in defense and aerospace manufacturing, announced today that it will expand in Joplin, investing $20.9 million and creating 100 new jobs. The company broke ground today on a new energetics facility and administration building at its existing Joplin headquarters location.

“Major expansions from industry leaders like EaglePicher Technologies continue to prove Missouri’s status as a top business destination,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This company’s decision to build state-of-the-art facilities in Joplin further demonstrates our ability to support employers through superior infrastructure and a skilled workforce. We’re pleased to see EaglePicher Technologies strengthening our defense and aviation sectors with such a significant investment.”

EaglePicher Technologies’ new manufacturing facility will feature state-of-the-art advancements in manufacturing technology with semi-automatic capabilities. Advanced software for data retrieval and tracking will be housed at the facility. The U.S. owned company is known for its battery technology, energetic devices, and battery management systems. EaglePicher Technologies experienced an influx in battery production after launching a battery into space aboard NASA’s Explorer 1 satellite in 1958.

“This investment will position EaglePicher’s energetics business for significant growth, while strengthening our ability to respond to current demands in a premier defense and aerospace manufacturing facility,” said Matt Housh, General Manager of EaglePicher’s Energetics Business Unit.

EaglePicher Technologies, headquartered in Joplin, has more than 700 total employees with 600 employed at its Joplin location. New jobs added as part of EaglePicher Technologies’ expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

“Today’s announcement from EaglePicher Technologies is an exciting example of putting our mission of helping Missourians prosper into action,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This innovative company’s ongoing commitment to southwest Missouri is providing new investment, creating quality jobs, and supporting industries vital to a secure and prosperous future.”

For this expansion, EaglePicher Technologies will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. The company may receive assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.

What others are saying

“This is truly a landmark development for the City of Joplin,” said Travis Stephens, President and CEO of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. “The wage levels and number of jobs that will follow are significant and the appreciation of the leadership of Steve Westfall and the Tuthill family, and their vision for EaglePicher, cannot be understated. We are grateful for their confidence in the workforce and the supportive community to locate this unique facility in Joplin.”

“EaglePicher Technologies continues to demonstrate its commitment to the MOKAN region with this significant investment in our community,” said Amy Kauffman, Workforce and Business Expansion Director of the MOKAN Partnership. “The company’s expansion not only strengthens our local economy but also brings high-quality, well-paying jobs to our residents. We are proud to have EaglePicher as a valued partner in advancing our region's growth and innovation, and we look forward to its continued success here.”

About EaglePicher Technologies

EaglePicher Technologies is a leading producer of batteries, power-supply products, and energetic devices. For more than 100 years, it has served the mission-critical space, defense, and aviation markets. The company’s products are a key component of the U.S. Defense, Aerospace, and Maritime programs.

To learn more about EaglePicher Technologies, visit eaglepicher.com.

Carthage R-9 Board approves three teacher retirements, one resignation

(From the Carthage R-9 School District)

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, November 18, 2024, 6:00 pm, at Fairview Elementary. Present were Board members Mr. Jeff Jones, Ms. Niki Cloud, Mrs. Lora Phelps, Mr. Ryan Collier, Mr. Patrick Scott, Ms. Maria Sanchez, and Dr. Mark Westhoff. Mr. Jeff Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Fairview Elementary, third grade students presented a writing piece they have completed this year. 

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meetings, payment of bills, approve district financial report, amendments to FY25 budget, change order request #1 for Carthage stadium elevator, and establish filing dates for the annual board of education election. 

Rebecca Baker, KPM CPA’s, reviewed the FY24 audit report. 

Dr. Luke Boyer, Superintendent, provided the Board information regarding the revised policies and regulations for their review and consideration of adoption at the December 16, 2024 board meeting. Dr. Boyer and the Board discussed a resolution for future ballot issues. Dr. Boyer provided legislative priorities to the Board. Ms. Sanchez and Dr. Westhoff volunteered to serve on the John T. Belcher Scholarship Selection Committee. The committee will select a nominee to represent the district in this competitive scholarship application process. 

Shelley Wilson, School Counselor & K-12 Counseling Department Chair and Jessica McDonald, District Counseling Specialist, presented the MSIP 6 Standard: Counseling and Advisement evaluative report to the Board. Dr. Boyer presented the MSIP 6 Standard: Finances evaluative report to the Board Mr. Mark Holderbaum, Director of Athletics and Activities, and Dr. Angela Holman, High School Principal, appeared before the Board to review the 2024 Carthage High School fall sports. 

Mrs. Crystal Brown provided a Carthage R-9 School Foundation update. 

Dr. Boyer presented his report to the Board. 

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss legal, personnel, and student matters in compliance with Section 610.021 (1), (3), and (6) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. 

In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions: Approved the employment of certified, support, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district: 

Support Hire

Ashley Woodward, Cook Carthage Intermediate Center New Hire 

Marcus Van Dorn, Choir Accompanist (part time) Carthage Junior High School New Hire 

Kaitlyn Wright, Cook Carthage High School New Hire 

Allison Hill, Sped Paraprofessional Columbian Elementary New Hire 

Amber Vaughan, Cook Fairview Elementary New Hire 

Kayden Baucom, Behavior Specialist Fairview Elementary New Hire 

Substitute Hire 

Olivia Osborn, Substitute District New Hire 

Stacey Bolles, Substitute Cook District New Hire 

Elizabeth Arthur, Substitute District Re-Hire 

Lizbeth Yost, Substitute District New Hire

Heather Justice, Substitute District Re-Hire 

Andrew Albrecht, Substitute Bus Driver Transportation New Hire 

Shalanna Ducote, Substitute District Re-Hire 

Jamie Aggus, Substitute Cook District New Hire 

Robert Bastin, Substitute District Re-Hire 

Certified Modification 

Bobbi Castor, Bobbi Behavior Teacher Columbian Elementary Modification 

Support Transfer

James Wilson, Evening Custodian Pleasant Valley/Powers Learning Center Transfer 

Vilma Rissman, Bus Aide Transportation Transfer 

Support Modification 

Breanna Fletcher, Cook Columbian Elementary Modification 

Substitute Modification

John Seal, Substitute District Modification 

Certified Retirement 

Karen Holland, Art Teacher Carthage Intermediate Center Retirement 

Carole Wade, Math Teacher Carthage High School Retirement 

Zoie Russell, Math Teacher Carthage High School Retirement 

Certified Resignation

Laura Heigle, Language Arts Teacher Carthage Junior High School Resignation 

Support Resignation

Courtney Franklin, Cook Sixth Grade Center Resignation 

Lori Harris, Cook Carthage Intermediate Center Resignation 

Barry Brattin, Bus Aide Transportation Resignation 

Belva Wagner, Title 1 Paraprofessional Pleasant Valley Elementary Resignation 

Joseph Spencer, Custodian Columbian Elementary Resignation 

Jennifer Miller, Cook Steadley Elementary Resignation

Troopers, medical examiner subpoenaed to testify at preliminary hearing in Rocco Joseph hit-and-run case

Two Kansas Highway Patrol troopers and an assistant medical examiner have been subpoenaed to testify at the preliminary hearings for Rocco Joseph, 18, and his father, Joplin dentist John Joseph II, 9 a.m. Monday, January 13, at the Cherokee County Courthouse in Columbus, Kansas.

Both Josephs have been charged with leaving the scene of a fatality accident in connection with the August 19, 2023 crash that killed Gary LaTurner, 60, Galena. The older Joseph is also charged with contributing to a child's misconduct.

Subpoenas for troopers Nicholas Irwin and Nick Reddy and assistant medical examiner Christopher Geffre were issued November 6, according to Cherokee County District Court online records.

The Josephs entered not guilty pleas during their initial appearance October 30. John Joseph attended the hearing in person while Rocco Joseph was permitted to attend via Zoom. The hearing had initially been scheduled for October 7, but was delayed because the younger Joseph, who is a student at a Mississippi college, had mid-terms.

According to the probable cause statement, surveillance video shows Rocco Joseph's vehicle struck LaTurner at 11:23 p.m. August 19, with Joseph not stopping. Shortly afterward, Joseph called his father and later met with him at the Casey's General Store at 2764 W. 32nd Street in Joplin and after a short time they returned to the scene of the accident.

The probable cause statement indicated the Josephs were captured on surveillance video returning to the scene of the accident, surveying the situation, including LaTurner, who was still alive at that point, according to the initial coroner's report, which said LaTurner died more than eight hours later.

The Turner Report: Probable cause: Surveillance video shows Josephs returning to scene of fatal hit-and-run, leaving again

Judge merry-go-round on Tiffany Cossey sign stealing case lands on Hensley

Former Carthage City Councilwoman Tiffany Cossey's initial appearance on a misdemeanor stealing charge, originally scheduled for today in Carthage Municipal Court, has been indefinitely postponed.

Jasper County Circuit Court online documents show the case was moved to Circuit Court Wednesday following the recusal of Judge Jeremy Workman.

Since then, two judges, John Nicholas and Luke Boyer have recused.

As this is written, Judge Joseph Hensley has been assigned.

Cossey allegedly stole two signs asking people to vote to remove her from the City Council. Carthage Ward 5 voters recalled the councilwoman during the November 5 election.

Background on Cossey case
 

Noel woman charged in connection with hit-and-run accident that killed Marine veteran

The McDonald County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed a felony leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death charge today against Gloria Trejo, 53, Noel.

Trejo admitted to a Noel police officer that she was behind the wheel November 2 near the intersection of S. Kings Highway and Hall Ridge Road when she struck Michael Lynn Pruden, 59, according to the probable cause statement.

Pruden, who was a a U. S. Marines veteran who served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield, was pronounced dead at the scene.

From the probable cause statement:

On 11/19/2024 after further investigation and statements regarding the incident and locating a serial number on a piece of lens that was collected as evidence, I learned that the suspect vehicle was a maroon 1992 Ford F-150 which belonged to Trejo. 

When speaking with Trejo on 11/19/2024 she stated that while she was driving “all of the sudden there was something in the middle of the road, so I swerved and I barely hit at first I thought it was a deer but it didn’t seem right. So I turned back to make sure and that’s when I saw it was a person. I got scared so I left.” Trejo made a written statement as to what occurred.

Bond has been set at $2,000.

DNR awards Granby $62,500 grant to study feasibility of connecting sewer system with East Newton High School

(From the Missouri Department of Natural Resources)

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $62,500 to the city of Granby to evaluate the feasibility of constructing a regional sewer connection between East Newton High School and the city’s wastewater system. 

Provided through the department’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund Regionalization Incentive Grant, the funding will cover all the eligible costs to develop the plan, which is expected to be completed by April 2026.

This is a competitive grant program that offers funding to municipalities as an incentive to construct connections for small, struggling wastewater treatment facilities. The entities responsible for these small facilities often lack the financial and technical resources to upgrade their wastewater treatment facilities to meet more stringent limits and operate their facilities appropriately. These facilities typically serve such a small number of connections that the cost to comply with permit conditions is a significant financial challenge for the users.

“The department’s intention for this grant is to decrease the number of point sources that discharge pollutants to Missouri’s waterways by promoting regional partnerships that would not be possible without this funding,” said Dru Buntin, director of the Department of Natural Resources. “Water and wastewater systems are crucial infrastructure that aid community health and economic vitality.”

The department’s Financial Assistance Center is committed to working with communities to assist with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Monies received from The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will fully fund this project.

For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/what-were-doing/state-revolving-fund-srf.

Neosho man charged with violating protection order, assaulting woman

Jeremy L. Esquivel, (DOB 1994), Neosho, was charged with domestic assault and violation of a protection order for allegedly assaulting a woman October 10.

From the probable cause statement:

On 10/09/2023, I, Officer C. Cook, was at the Neosho Police Department when victim I frantically entered the lobby. {She}was hysterically crying with an open wound on the right side of her head. {Her} shirt was torn and had blood spots on the front. 

Victim 1 stated she left her residence to take her daughter to school and Mr. Esquivel was on the couch. Victim l has an active Order of Protection against Mr. Esquivel. {She} told Mr. Esquivel to leave and be gone when she returned to the residence. 

Victim 1 stated she returned home and Mr. Esquivel was on the couch still. {She} stated she went to her bedroom to call emergency services and Mr. Esquivel followed her and locked her inside the bedroom. {She} stated Mr. Esquivel threw her onto the bed by her hair causing a large bump on the back of her head and hit her over the head with a closed fist, causing the injury to her forehead. 

Victim 1 stated she attempted to fight Mr. Esquivel off of her, but he grabbed a pillow and placed it over her face. {She} had a marking on her neck where the pillow was placed. 

Mr. Esquivel has a active protection order in effect and has been served. Mr. Esquivel violated the protection order by committing a domestic assault on the petitioner, stalked the petitioner, disturbed the peace of the petitioner, and communicated with the petitioner by means of in person conversation.

Mr. Esquivel placed a pillow over victim 1's face, restricting her airway, causing victim I to fear for her life. Mr. Esquivel knowingly attempted to cause serious physical injury to victim 1. It should also be noted, Mr. Esquivel has two cases for violation of protection that have not gone through the courts. 

On 03/22/2023, Mr. Esquivel was arrested for Domestic Assault 4th Degree and Violation of Order of Protection.

On 07/03/2023, Mr. Esquivel was arrested for Violation of Order of Protection.

Probable cause: Newton County man harassed woman, burned down her barn

The Newton County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed arson, harassment and stalking charges Monday against a Fairview man who allegedly burned a woman's barn to the ground.

According to the probable cause statement, Dale William DeBoer (DOB 1976) was walking to Dollar General with a woman September 24 when he began threatening to slash her tires.

Two days later, the statement said, the woman saw DeBoer leaving her barn with a gas can in her hand with the barn on fire. The barn was a total loss.

Burglary and assault charges in connection with crimes that allegedly took place September 10 were also filed Monday in Newton County Circuit Court.

Judge weighs whether Kanakuk defrauded abuse survivor’s family

By Annelise Hanshaw

Missouri Independent

OZARK — Attorneys argued about culpability in Christian County Circuit Court Monday morning in a lawsuit involving a Branson-area Christian summer camp accused of conspiring with its insurer to trick a family into signing a non-disclosure agreement by concealing prior knowledge of sexual misconduct.

Logan Yandell, a survivor of sexual abuse by Kanakuk Ministries’ former camp director, filed a lawsuit in 2022 alleging misstatements by the camp’s CEO led his parents to sign a settlement and non-disclosure agreement for $250,000 that they otherwise would have continued to fight.

Yandell’s attorney, Reed Martens, told Judge Raymond Gross on Monday that his client’s parents signed a release in December of 2010 under pressure from Kanakuk CEO Joe White, who was their family friend.

During a call in September of 2009, Martens said, the Yandell family asked White if he knew of other abuse allegations involving former Kanakuk camp director Peter Newman. He allegedly said “nothing has been on (the camp’s) radar with (Newman),” but an affidavit by Newman’s former supervisor disclosed that the camp had been aware of misconduct as early as 1999.

The lawsuit also names ACE American Insurance Company as a defendant, arguing it influenced the camp’s decision to conceal information.

Gross asked if there was “correspondence of any kind” between the camp and ACE prior to White’s phone call with the Yandells.

David Mayer, who is also representing Yandell, said the insurance company was aware of abuse allegations “in March or April” prior to the call.

White testified that he did not speak to ACE before the alleged misstatement, said Manuel Mungia, an attorney for ACE, and the company wasn’t even notified of the statement.

“There is no evidence that ACE was aware of a fraudulent statement,” he said.

Yandell’s attorneys provided evidence of the company attempting to influence White months later when the camp drafted a letter to send to 8,000 families outlining what it knew about Newman.

ACE, in response, “strongly recommended not to send the letter” and sent a reservation of rights letter, which could exempt the company from covering related legal matters, Martens said.

So the email remained unreleased. This lawsuit has unearthed the draft and ACE’s response to the camp, Martens said, and it “gives rise to the concealment and conspiracy.”

Another matter Gross will have to consider is whether media reports of Newman’s arrest could nullify the case under the statute of limitations for fraud.

In Missouri, claims must be brought within five years of discovering the fraud, and victims have 10 years for discovery.

Bryan Wade, an attorney for Kanakuk, said there were court cases and news articles published over five years ago that the Yandell family had access to. Access to the information, he argued, is the same as knowledge, according to other cases.

Yandell’s parents didn’t have the responsibility to seek out the other court cases or media reports, Marten said, because of their close personal relationship with White. He said because their friend had “superior knowledge of the facts,” they were exempt from ordinary standards of diligence.

Another survivor of Newman’s abuse, in a deposition, told attorneys that he, White and Yandell discussed Newman’s misconduct years ago, Wade said. Importantly, Yandell is the case’s plaintiff — not his parents.

But Yandell’s parents told attorneys their discovery of the allegations of abuse was in 2021, when a national news article labeled Kanakuk’s situation the “worst Christian sex abuse scandal.”

If Gross accepts that 2021 is the year of discovery, the case is still within the statute of limitations.

He told attorneys his goal is to submit his judgment “by the end of the year,” though he had a large workload.

The case is set for trial in July 2025.

Carthage man charged with stalking Jasper County detention officer, violating protection order

A felony stalking charge was filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court against a Carthage man who allegedly harassed a detention officer at the Jasper County Jail.

Kaden Allen Glaser (DOB 2004) was already awaiting trial for violating a protection order preventing him from going near the detention officer when the activities that brought the latest charges occurred.

According to the probable cause statement in the protection order case, the investigating Carthage Police Department officer said Glaser posed a threat to the officer because: 

Glaser met the Victim while incarcerated at the victim's place of employment. On release, Glaser began stalking the victim causing her to obtain a protection order. The suspect has shown an obsession stating he is in love with the victim and has disregarded the protection order trespassing at the victim's residence on two separate occasions in a two-hour period.

After his latest arrest, Glaser tried to convince other detention officers to give his alleged victim the message that he loved her, the probable cause statement said.

{Glaser} became agitated and aggressive with Deputies after being told the message would not be passed. {He} made comments about continuing to go to Victim #1's residence when he got released from jail, and made statements advising he would murder Victim #1.

Allegation: MO Baptist Children's Home caseworker tampered with evidence in case of teens who planned to murder foster parents

The McDonald County Prosecuting Attorney's office charged a Missouri Baptist Children's Home case worker with tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution of a felony, alleging that she interfered into an investigation of two juvenile girls' plot to murder their foster parents.

A warrant was sworn out today for the arrest of Emily Flatt, 27, Springfield, who allegedly withheld a letter in which the teens' step-by-step plan to kill their foster parents using Coca-Cola laced with bleach and other substances and a kitchen knife.

Bond was set at $1,500.

From the probable cause statement:

According to Chief Deputy Allison, the two alternative care case managers were to meet to pick up belongings for the children as the two juvenile females were already separated and kept from riding the bus to the residence. 

Further, on November 1st, 2024, your affiant attended a conference in the McDonald County Courthouse which Emily Flatt had requested. Emily informed your affiant that {a witness} had disclosed to a case manager a plot to murder {the foster parents}.

According to Emily Flatt, the instigator of this plot was {name redacted}however the items to be used, namely a kitchen knife and bottle of Coca-Cola laced with bleach and/or other unknown substances, were to be found in {name redacted's} bedroom at the {home}. 

Further, on November 1st, 2024, your affiant, executed a consent search on the {foster parents'} residence and seized a kitchen knife, concealed under a blanket in  {redacted's} bedroom and the bottle of Coca-Cola from near the freezer in  {her}bedroom. 

Further, on November 12th, 2024, your affiant, in furtherance of this investigation, interviewed was the former foster parent of {the girl} and whom Emily Flatt called to pick {the girl up.} {She} picked up {the girl} from the McDonald County High School, where {it was disclosed) that a step-by-step plan had been written down. 

{The witness} informed your affiant and on November 16th, 2024 completed a voluntary statement declaring the following, Emily [Flatt] stated "The girls wrote out a plot to murder their foster parents. {One girl} was involved and opened up the window for {the other girl} to get in. They had this step-by-step plan, please do not let her out of your site [sic]

"Further, on November 15th, 2024, your affiant along with 40th Circuit Deputy Juvenile Officer Kaylee Clay, arrived at the Missouri Baptist Children's Home Office in Springfield, Missouri where Emily Flatt is a case manager, and specifically case manager for {one of the girls} to serve an Investigative Subpoena issued under RSMo. 56.085. 

After serving Emily Flatt's supervisor, we were informed that Emily Flatt was at the Greene County Courthouse on a court case connected to one of her clients. Further, on November 15th, 2024, Deputy Juvenile Officer Clay and your affiant arrived at the Greene County Courthouse and located Emily Flatt. 

Your affiant informed her that he was aware of the existence of the step-by-step letter and asked if the note was in her possession to which she denied having possession. 

Your affiant asked Emily if the note existed to which she denied its existence. Your affiant then confronted Emily that she had spoken to an individual in detail about the note's contents and existence to which Emily stated she "did not recall." 

When informed that I needed the note "today" Emily stated that per her supervisor, she would not answer any more questions "without the presence of her attorney." 

Determining that she appeared to be invoking her fifth amendment rights against self-incrimination, questioning immediately ceased. Deputy Juvenile Officer Clay then asked "One question, would you be willing to let her out of residential to put her in detention?" to which Emily stated, "You will need to contact her attorney." 

By her own admission in the conference held on November lst, 2024, Emily was aware that  {the girl} was involved and had disclosed a plot to commit premeditated murder of Emily Flatt had a legal duty to disclose to Deputy Juvenile Officer Kaylee Clay the whereabouts of {the girl} and to permit apprehension of (the girl)for further proceedings before the Court. 

Further, after the refusal of Emily Flatt to allow Deputy Juvenile Officer Kaylee Clay to apprehend {the girl} the Court issued a Writ of Habeas Corpus directing Missouri Baptist Children's Home to bring {her} before the Court. 

Further, pursuant to the Rules of Criminal Procedure, specifically rule 22.04, your affiant states to the Court the following:

The defendant poses a danger to the community. The facts that support this belief is as follows:

Emily Flatt is employed by the Missouri Baptist Children's Home (''M.B.C.H.") as a case manager. M.B.C.H. is a contractor for the State of Missouri Children's Division in foster care services and placement of children in State custody for abuse and neglect. 

An essential part of her duties is to cooperate with the Juvenile Justice authorities and the Court. By and through her course of conduct, Emily Flatt has impeded not only a law enforcement investigation but potentially endangered other children, foster care professionals, and the community.

Sentencing memo: Joplin woman should spend 37 months in prison for laundering proceeds from on-line romance scam

A Joplin woman who helped con artists who were conducting an online romance scam launder their money should spend 37 months behind bars, according to a sentencing memorandum filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.

The memorandum, written by Assistant U. S. Attorney Casey Clark, notes that while Bonnie Henning, 62, pleaded guilty to a lesser money laundering charge, she still played a key role by laundering more than $302,960 between July 2020 and August 2022 and should have to serve prison time.

From the sentencing memorandum:

The defendant received a direct warning from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) in November 2021 that she was laundering fraud proceeds and the FBI directed her to cease the activity. 

She ignored this warning and continued accepting fraud proceeds through the mail from these fraudsters, even going so far as to direct the fraudsters to send the money to her elderly neighbor’s address after she detected that the United States Postal Service was investigating her illegal conduct. 

The proceeds, which came to the defendant in numerous transactions and mailings over the course of two years, were sent to the defendant by vulnerable victims who were defrauded through online romance scams. 

The defendant and others then utilized the illegal proceeds for their own personal benefit and for the benefit of the conspiracy.

Henning's sentencing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Friday in U. S. District Court in Springfield.

Jason Smith: Trump's great team will make America and the world a safer place

(From Eighth District Congressman Jason Smith)

Over the last four years, the world has become an increasingly dangerous place thanks to the lack of leadership and failed policies of the Biden administration. 

A war is raging in Europe for the first time since WWII. The evil Iranian regime and its terror proxies are launching unprecedented attacks against Israel, a beacon of freedom and our most important ally. And the Chinese Communist Party is doing everything it can to build up its military and spread its influence around the world. 

While there is plenty of reason to be concerned, I’m relieved that we will soon have a president who will advance a peace through strength agenda to make America feared by our enemies and respected by our allies once again.

President-elect Donald Trump’s first term was packed full of foreign policy wins. There wasn’t a war in Europe or the Middle East. He successfully forced our NATO allies to increase their defense spending. He brokered the Abraham accords, a landmark agreement that improved diplomatic and economic ties between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. He also moved the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, something numerous other presidents had pledged but failed to do.

Although Trump hasn’t been sworn in as president yet, he’s already off to a great start in his effort to restore America’s greatness on the world stage. He has wasted no time putting together an incredibly talented team to help him advance his America First, peace through strength agenda.

President-elect Donald Trump has done an incredible job building out his foreign policy team. I believe U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will do an excellent job as Secretary of State. As a first-generation American whose parents escaped Cuba before the violent communist takeover, he has first-hand experience with rooting out and standing up against communist dictatorships.

I’m also particularly excited about the choice of former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. Tulsi will be a fierce advocate for restoring Americans’ trust in our intelligence services. As an Army Reserve veteran herself, she has a tremendous record of service for our nation and will carry out President Trump’s desire to root out the actors who have put their own personal and political agendas ahead of the interests of our country.

At a time of raging antisemitism throughout our country and reduced support for Israel among foreign nations, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee is a great pick for U.S. Ambassador to Israel. He is a man of faith, a proven leader, and an unwavering advocate for Israel. He has a very close relationship with Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister who has faced unacceptable criticism by Biden and leaders on the Left. Huckabee will improve relations between the U.S. and Israel, and ensure our vital ally has the support it needs to defend itself and eliminate the evil terrorists who threaten its existence.







I’m also excited that President-elect Donald Trump selected New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik to be the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (UN). She has been an invaluable ally in the fight against antisemitism on college campuses as a member of the Education and the Workforce Committee. In addition, she has led the charge in pressuring the Biden administration to cut off taxpayer dollars from funding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), an organization whose employees directly participated in the October 7th terror attack against Israel.

Trump will have a great team made up of like-minded individuals supporting his fight to advance an America First, peace through strength agenda. There is no doubt in my mind that Trump will make America – and the world – a safer place.

Eric Burlison: I'm eager to work with Trump/Vance administration to make America great again

(From Seventh District Congressman Eric Burlison)

This week, I had the privilege of hearing from President-elect Donald Trump at a House Republican Conference meeting.

Over the past four years, the Biden/Harris administration's policies have wreaked havoc on our nation. From an unprecedented border crisis to skyrocketing prices on everyday goods, and global instability, their agenda has left Americans struggling.

 

On November 5th, voters decisively rejected this disastrous trajectory, handing Republicans control of the House, Senate, and White House. This mandate signals a clear demand for change and a return to policies that put Americans first.

I’m eager to work with the incoming Trump/Vance administration to steer our country back on track and fulfill our commitment to making America great again.

U. S. Supreme Court rejects Rowan Ford killer's last-ditch attempt to avoid death penalty

The U. S. Supreme Court Tuesday rejected a last-ditch effort by lawyers representing Chris Collings to save their client from the death sentence.

Collings is scheduled to be executed 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 3, for the 2007 murder of Rowan Ford, 9, a fourth grader at Triway Elementary in Stella.

The Court denied a writ of certiorari for Collings in April, meaning it would not even hear Collings' case.

Collings' attorney filed a motion to file a supplemental appendix to the petition for a writ of certiorari under seal. The court once again denied the request.

Collings' efforts to stave off the death penalty were rejected by the Missouri Supreme Court August 15.

Public defenders working on Collings' behalf, filed the long shot motion to have his sentence tossed out claiming the defense was not told that a chief witness against Collings, former Wheaton Police Chief Clifford Clark had violated Collings' rights in obtaining a confession from him and had a record of illegal activity when he was serving in the military.

In the motion, the public defender also noted that another man, Rowan Ford's stepfather David Spears, had also confessed to the crime.

The motions to the U. S. and Missouri supreme courts were filed after Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed a motion to the Missouri Supreme Court April 2 asking that an execution date be scheduled for Collings, who has been on death row since May 11, 2012, after he was convicted by a Platte County jury following a two-week trial.

In his motion, Bailey detailed Collings' crimes:

In November of 2007, Christopher Collings abducted, raped, and murdered nine-year-old Rowan Ford of Stella, Missouri, in Newton County.

Afterwards, Collings threw the victim’s body in a sinkhole near Powell, Missouri in McDonald County. Collings also burned the rope he used to strangle the victim, the blood-stained clothing he wore during the attack, and his blood-stained mattress. Collings eventually confessed to the police.

Collings was convicted in Phelps County by a jury selected from Platte County. During the punishment phase of the trial, the jury found that Collings had tortured the victim in a way that was vile, horrible, and inhumane. The jury also found that Collings murdered the victim to prevent her from testifying against him regarding the rape.

Collings’s conviction and sentence have been reviewed by the Missouri Supreme Court, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court. No court has ever found any legal errors.

Nancy Hughes: Peace in the storm

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 (NIV)

Strong storms packed with wind and rain are normal in Missouri. I remember one particular downpour during the first quarter of our local football game on a cool Friday evening. Fortunately, I had an umbrella big enough to protect nearly a third of the stadium. I needed one that coordinated with my brown jacket and found one with “gold” stamped on the package. I realized after I opened it at home that it actually said “golf.” Oh well.

But as I sat at the game, I thought back to my first storm without the protection of my husband. He had passed away about three months before the big winds and rain hit. The electricity in my home had gone out and the darkness felt as thick as smoke as I stumbled to light candles everywhere but they did nothing to calm my fears as shingle after shingle flew off the roof and thudded like wounded birds on the lawn.

I remember wondering “Will it always be like this? Will I always huddle on the sofa and feel so frightened of every storm that comes my way?” I knew that if he had been there, my husband would have grinned and winked and said “It’s a big one, isn’t it Nance.” and I would have been reassured instantly. But he wasn’t there nor would he be coming back so I pulled my sweater tighter around me, prayed silently, and waited for the storm to pass.

That was several years ago but the “storms” have continued to hit with a vicious force. One “storm” was an empty propane tank on the coldest night of the year. Another was a truck that flatly refused to ever run again after I stopped at a red light. Still, another was a major financial issue that needed to be addressed immediately. And then a massive storm with a virus indiscriminately tried to sink its teeth into every person it came in contact with. Storm after storm after storm.

Of course, we have those times of fresh air, sunshine, a view that is breathtaking and more money in the bank than bills on the kitchen counter and our hearts are at peace. But we cannot deny the inevitability in John 16:33 that just the opposite will eventually happen: unforeseen storms will blindside us and bills will pile up with an empty bank account; a health diagnosis will be cancer; a best friend will pass away.

And what is the answer? We don’t have the power to decide exactly when to schedule a storm. And honestly, is there ever a good time to pencil in a broken arm on our calendars? Not at all. But the one constant that I have learned through life is this: God will never leave us in our storms. He stays right beside us, encouraging us and giving us strength to continue as the winds rage around us. He comforts us as He reminds us that all storms are temporary. They will blow over. We will experience relief. Even when I don’t understand the “why” in the storm. Even when my heart is broken to the point that I don’t think it can be repaired. Even then.

May I suggest something for you to consider the next time a storm hits your life? Stand in the middle of your living room, turn your face to the Lord, and praise Him. “WHAT??” you say. Praise?? Yes. Praise Him for never leaving you. Praise Him for being in control of all things – including storms. Praise Him for having a purpose in every storm – even when you can’t see it. That is not saying you are happy and content with every storm you experience; it is saying that you will trust the One who sees what you do not. Tears of grief? Yes. But praise for never leaving you and having a plan in all things? Oh, yes.

We are going to be drenched again and again as storms blow into our lives but rest assured that they will also blow out of our lives as well. And the Creator of the Universe will never ever EVER leave us. I pray you feel His presence and His peace today and every day.

Father, even when we don’t understand; when our hearts are broken into tiny pieces, even then we know you are in control and you love us. We love you. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

R.A.P. it up . . .

Reflect

Have you ever believed that the storm you experienced would last forever and the Lord would not be with you?

Did you call on the Lord to get you through or get angry that it was happening to you?

Apply

When a storm hits in your life, stop, take a deep breath, and ask the Lord to make His presence known.

Memorize the 23rd Psalm and praise the Lord in the middle of the storm. Ask prayer warriors to pray over you.

Power

John 16:33 (NIV) “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Psalm 23:4 (NIV) “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comport me.”

Exodus 33:14 (NIV) “The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

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

Lamar police chief resigns to take Newton County chief deputy position

Lamar Police Chief Joe Moore announced his resignation effective December 13 to take a position as Newton County Sheriff's Office chief deputy.

Moore, a former Joplin Police Department officer, has been Lamar police chief since June 1, 2020, when he replaced another former JPD officer Rusty Rives, who took a position as Lamar's assistant city administrator.

Moore retired January 24, 2020 after 20 years with the Joplin Police Department.  He has more than 28 years of law enforcement experience and served in the U. S. Marines.

During his time in Joplin, he served in Uniformed Operations, Investigations, Professional Standards, and Support Services. 

Moore also served as a firearms instructor, SWAT officer, field training officer, internal affairs investigator, and training coordinator.

Judge rejects former Carthage mayor's request for writ of prohibition, trial will be held by end of year

Greene County Circuit Court Judge J. Ronald Carrier rejected former Carthage Mayor Dan Rife's request for an emergency writ of prohibition that would put him back in office but will hold a trial sometime before the end of the year to determine if the City Council acted legally when it impeached Rife October 29.

Carrier said Rife had "failed to establish unequivocally that an extreme necessity for preventative action exists."

In his petition filed in Jasper County Circuit Court the day after the impeachment hearing, Rife's lawyer, Christopher Thornton, St. Charles, claimed Rife could not be removed despite the 6-2 vote on four of the five counts against him because six is one short of the two-thirds majority of elected city council members required by the city code.

The City Council had 10 elected members earlier in the year, but council member Dustin Edge resigned recently, and David Armstrong resigned earlier in the year.

In his order, which was issued this afternoon, Judge Carrier asked attorneys on both sides to tell him within five days how much time they think the trial will take and what dates are available.

Carthage men charged with stealing $6,300 worth of copper cable, tools from Carthage Water & Electric

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney filed stealing and trespassing charges today against two Carthage men who allegedly stole more than $2,800 worth of copper cable on their first visit to Carthage Water & Electric and $3,500 worth of copper and tools on the second visit.

Warrants have been issued for the arrest of Jake Peterson (DOB 1982) and Thomas Morgan O'Connell (DOB 1967), with bond set at $10,000 cash only for both men.

From Peterson's probable cause statement:

On November 11, 2024, Carthage Police Officers responded to Carthage Water and Electric Plant (CWEP) substation number two located at the intersection of Southside and Main Street, in the City of Carthage. 

They advised over $2800 worth of copper cable was stolen. They advised they had a trail camera and provided images of the individuals who had unlawfully entered by cutting the fence and stealing items from the construction trailer. 

On November 13, 2024, Carthage Police Officers responded to Carthage Water and Electric Plant (CWEP) substation number two located at the intersection of Southside and Main Street, in the City of Carthage. They reported they had videos of two individuals breaking into the contractor trailer again. They reported more than $3500 of copper and tools were stolen. They also located where the suspects entered into the fenced-in area. The total loss to repair the fence was $1200. 

Carthage Officers subsequently identified the Co-Defendant to be one of the suspects via the provided security footage. 

On November 13, 2024, Officers contacted the Co-Defendant when he committed a traffic violation on his bicycle. During the contact the Co-Defendant advised he did break into the substation and took the copper cable, however, he stated that Jake PETERSON took the tool to cut the cable. 

The Co-Defendant advised he could go to PETERSON'S residence and retrieve the tool. Officers searched the Co-Defendant and followed him to PETERSON'S residence. The Co-Defendant entered the residence and one (1) minute later exited the residence with the stolen tool in question. 

Officers contacted the Co-Defendant a few blocks away from the residence and retrieved the tool. A subsequent contact with CWEP and the contractors, B&L Electric, confirmed the Greenly “gator” cable cutter was theirs that was retrieved from PETERSON'S residence. 

During a subsequent interview with PETERSON, he admitted to cutting part of the fence and entering into the secure area of the substation. He and the Co-Defendant then took several hundred feet of wire and the tool. He admitted to transporting the stolen goods to the Co-Defendant’s house and his house.

Probable cause: Noel man tampered with witness by making five calls from jail phone

In less than one month, Matthew Wayne Rash, 34, Noel, has been charged with domestic assault, stalking, violating a protection order, driving while intoxicated as a prior offender and stealing.

For those acts, Rash has been confined to the McDonald County Detention Center where, according to a probable cause statement filed Thursday in McDonald County Circuit Court, he has continued to commit crimes.

The McDonald County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed a felony tampering with a witness charge against Rash, claiming he used a jail phone to call the woman who was the alleged victim in the domestic assault, stalking and protection order violation cases and tried to convince her not to testify against him.

All five calls were recorded.

In each call Rash made to {the woman} Rash numerous times demands that {she} drop the charges against him. During these conversations between Rash and {the woman} , Rash uses a very threating manner, elevated voice, and curses. However, no actual, specific threats are made by Rash.

According to the probable cause statement, Rash offered the woman, who is living in her car, a place to live if she didn't testify.

The charges against Rash are not anything new, according to the probable cause statement in the domestic assault case. He was convicted of assault in 2010 in McDonald County, violating a protection order in 2012 in Barry County and violating a protection order in 2016 in McDonald County.

Online court records show that in addition to the alleged crimes committed by Rash against the woman, he is currently awaiting trial on two other felony charges in Newton County.

The Neosho Police Department arrested Rash on a felony possession of a controlled substance charge May 11, 2023. Nearly a year and a half has passed and Rash has yet to have a preliminary hearing. Online Newton County Circuit Court records show the hearing is scheduled for February 3.

Rash's other Newton County Case dates back to 2022 when the Neosho Police Department arrested him for driving while intoxicated.

The case was delayed four times when Rash showed up without an attorney.

On the fifth time, not only did Rash still not have an attorney, but he also failed to show and a warrant was issued for his arrest by Judge Anna Christina Rhoades with bond set at $250 cash only.

After Rash was picked up, he asked to have his bond reduced. Judge Rhoades denied the request.

Rash finally hired an attorney, but no hearings have been held since, according to online records. His next hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. December 16.

Sentencing set for Joplin man on federal weapons charge

An 8:30 a.m. January 21 sentencing hearing has been scheduled in U. S. District Court in Springfield for Nathan Ray Spencer, 33, Joplin, on a weapons charge.

Spencer pleaded guilty June 12 to the charge, which stemmed from a February 26 Joplin Police Department traffic stop on Rangeline.

The details of the case against Spencer were spelled out in arrest information provided by JPD officer Chad Comer, who is also a member of the FBI Task Force.

On or about February 26,2024, JPD Officer Joshua Cahoon was conducting patrol duties near 3500 South Rangeline Road in Joplin, Newton County, within the Westem District of Missouri. Officer Cahoon observed a 2009 Chevrolet 2500 truck he knew to belong to Nathan Ray SPENCER.

Officer Cahoon believed the window tint on the vehicle was darker than allowed by Missouri law. Officer Cahoon followed the vehicle as it crossed Rangeline Road on 36th Street entering the Sam's Club parking lot located at 3536 Hammons Boulevard in Joplin, Newton County, within the Western District of Missouri.

Officer Cahoon conducted a stop on the vehicle in the parking lot for the illegal tint and contacted the driver of the vehicle, identified as SPENCER. Officer Cahoon utilized a department issued tint meter to analyze the tint on the vehicle. The tint meter showed the light transmission on SPENCER's vehicle to be at four percent (4%). Missouri law allows for window tinting with a light transmission of thirty-five percent (35%). Therefore, SPENCER's window tint was not Iegal under Missouri law.

Officer Cahoon was aware of intelligence that SPENCER was armed and selling narcotics. Officer Cahoon requested permission to search the vehicle which SPENCER denied. Officer Cahoon had SPENCER and the sole passenger seated in the front seat passenger seat exit the vehicle.

Officer Cahoon utilized his department issued K-9 partner to conduct an exterior sniff of the vehicle. Officer Cahoon's K-9 partner alerted to the odor of narcotics in the vehicle and the vehicle was searched.

While searching the vehicle, Officer Cahoon located a loaded syringe beside the console and driver's seat. The syringe contained a liquid that was later field tested using the TruNarc system. That liquid field tested positive for a mixture of fentanyl and methamphetamine.

Officer Cahoon located two additional syringes, a cut straw, and a piece of aluminum foil with residue. Officer Cahoon continued to search the vehicle and located inside the center console of the vehicle a brown, Taurus nine-millimeter pistol, model GX4, bearing serial number I GC60831. This firearm was loaded at the time of recovery.

Officer Cahoon then opened the driver's side rear door and located a bullet resistant vest hanging in the vehicle. On the floorboard between the front and rear seats, Officer Cahoon located a Smith and Wesson nine-millimeter pistol, model M2, bearing serial number NDS68l5. This firearm was also loaded at the time of recovery.