Monday, December 02, 2024

U. S. Supreme Court denies stay of execution for Rowan Ford's killer

 

Earlier today, Gov. Mike Parson denied clemency for convicted killer Chris Collings, who is scheduled to be executed 6 p.m. Tuesday for the November 2007 rape and murder of 9-year-old Rowan Ford, a Triway Elementary fourth grader.

Now, the U. S. Supreme Court has weighed in, also denying a stay of execution.


Appeals court rejects new trial for Joplin man who murdered his daughter


A Joplin man who shot and killed his daughter January 9, 2022 after she threw a bottle at him during an argument will not receive a new trial.

The Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals today rejected Todd Alan Mayes' claim that a police officer who testified against him should not have been allowed to show how Mayes used the gun. 

During his trial, Mayes claimed he was acting self-defense.








Mayes showed how he held the gun during a taped interview with the police. His lawyer objected when the police officer was allowed to demonstrate since the jury had already seen the video. The judge allowed the demonstration.

Mayes was initially charged with first degree murder, but the jury eventually convicted him on second degree murder and armed criminal action charges.


Sentencing date set for Absolutely Fabulous Boutique owner for trafficking in counterfeit goods

A 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 18 sentencing hearing is scheduled in U. S. District Court in Springfield for Monett businesswoman Tara Kingrey, 31, who pleaded guilty in February to trafficking in counterfeit goods.

According to the indictment, Kingrey acknowledged she sold counterfeit Louis Vuitton purses, handbags, wallets, necklaces and other products that were actually manufactured in Hong Kong and China.

Under the plea agreement, the government has agreed not to file any more charges for trafficking in counterfeit goods that have been sold through Kingrey's business.

Parson: State will carry out the execution of Chris Collings


(From Gov. Mike Parson)

Today, Governor Mike Parson confirmed that the State of Missouri will carry out the sentence of Chis Collings on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, as ordered by the Supreme Court of Missouri.

"Mr. Collings has received every protection afforded by the Missouri and United States Constitutions, and Mr. Collings' conviction and sentence remain for his horrendous and callous crime," Governor Parson said. "The State of Missouri will carry out Mr. Collings’ sentence according to the Court's order and deliver justice."









Collings abducted nine-year-old Rowan Ford, raped her, and strangled her with chicken wire before throwing her into a sinkhole. Collings confessed to this abhorrent offense multiple times to numerous law enforcement officers, and evidence matching his statements was found at his residence. 

There is not and never has been any doubt about Collings’ involvement or the heinousness of his crimes. Nor has Collings’ conviction or sentence ever been reversed on appeal. 

Collings’ case has been reviewed in the state trial court, Missouri Supreme Court, federal district court, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, and United States Supreme Court.

Paula Baker to remain as Freeman CEO

Paula Baker's retirement will have to wait a bit longer.

Freeman Health employees were told today that Tom Keller, who had been scheduled to take over as CEO December 1, would not be taking over.

Baker, who has been Freeman CEO for nearly 14 years, will continue until a new CEO can be found.

Freeman officials did not say why Keller was out of the picture. 

Baker announced her impending retirement January 25 in an e-mail to staff:

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.

Warmest regards,

Paula F. Baker
President & CEO
Freeman Health System