Jason Vieselmeyer named Joplin North Middle School principal

(From Joplin Schools)

We are excited to announce the promotion of Jason Vieselmeyer as the next head principal of North Middle School beginning in July 2026! He will succeed retiring principal Tracy Newell.

Mr. Vieselmeyer is currently serving as assistant principal at North Middle School, a position he has held since 2018. He has also served as the Joplin Middle School summer school principal since 2020. 

With experience teaching middle school and high school social studies, world history and physical education, Mr. Vieselmeyer has been a Joplin Schools educator since 2002. He also currently serves as an adjunct instructor at Missouri Southern State University.

Having graduated from Pittsburg State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1998, Mr. Vieselmeyer later earned a Master of Education in Education Administration in 2006, and a Specialist of Education in Education Administration in 2022, both from William Woods University.

“I am honored to accept the position of principal at North Middle School, a community that has shaped me both professionally and personally,” said Mr. Vieselmeyer. “Here, I have built lasting relationships, grown alongside incredible colleagues, and helped generations of students, including my own children, discover their potential. I am committed to leading with integrity, putting students first, and building on the strong foundation that makes this school so special.”

McDonald County officials identify body found on Indian Creek Drive

(From the McDonald County Sheriff's Office)

On February 17, 2026, McDonald County Detectives were notified of a deceased individual located near the 100 block of Indian Creek Drive in Lanagan, Missouri.

Upon arrival, detectives discovered the body partially submerged in a creek. The scene was processed, and the McDonald County Coroner’s Office was contacted to respond.

During the investigation, detectives located a wallet containing a driver’s license. However, the individual’s identity could not be officially confirmed at the scene. An autopsy was conducted to determine the identity and further details surrounding the death.

Following the completion of the autopsy, the deceased was positively identified as Darick Cochran, age 43.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Cochran’s death remains ongoing. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the McDonald County Sheriff’s Office.

Joplin Fire Department ISO rating remains at 2

(From the City of Joplin)

The Joplin Fire Department’s ISO rating remains at a 2, keeping them in an elite group of fire departments in Missouri. Currently, only 32 agencies in Missouri have the 2 rating.

The department recently underwent a hazard risk analysis conducted by the Insurance Services Office (ISO) and was rated a “2”, a level they’ve held since 2016. ISO evaluates three major areas, including:

Fire department operations (staffing, training, equipment, response times)
Water supply systems (hydrants, flow, and testing)
Emergency communications (911 dispatch capabilities)

ISO ratings are significant to a community because they affect home and business insurance rates. The ISO provides information to insurance companies nationwide, which details a fire department’s capability in helping to prevent a fire from happening, as well as in their ability to minimize damage should one occur. The results of this analysis are then utilized by insurance companies to assign a hazard classification or rating to those properties currently protected by the Joplin Fire Department (JFD).

“Maintaining an ISO Class 2 rating is not something that happens by accident. It’s the result of our personnel showing up every day with commitment, discipline, and pride in the customer service we provide,” said Chief Gerald Ezell. “Our firefighters train relentlessly, respond with professionalism, and work hand‑in‑hand with our dispatchers and water department to meet the highest standards in fire protection. Being one of only 32 fire departments in the entire state of Missouri to hold this rating is a reflection of their dedication. I couldn’t be more proud of the men and women who make this level of excellence possible.”

Based on a scale of 1 – 10 (with 1 being the best and 10 being the worst), the ISO rating system’s lower number indicates to the underwriter a lesser probability of a fire and a reduced amount of potential damage should one take place. This generally translates to lower costs for non-residential property owners and for the individual seeking coverage.

Joplin man sentenced to five years for fatality DWI

(From the Newton County Prosecuting Attorney's Office)

A Joplin man has been sentenced to prison after entering a guilty plea to a Class C felony of Driving While Intoxicated Involving the Death of a Passenger.

William Deckard, 24, of Joplin, Missouri was sentenced to 5 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections by Judge Kevin Selby of the 40th Judicial Circuit after pleading guilty as charged without the benefit of a plea offer.

The charges arose out of a fatality wreck on River Road east of Highway 86 just south of Joplin on June 21, 2023. A probable cause statement filed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol outlined that the defendant admitted to consuming liquor and beer and smoking marijuana before operating his 2009 Chevy Cobalt at a high rate of speed off of the roadway into a mailbox in the single-vehicle crash, leading the death of Liberty Fowler, his passenger.

“We ask that you sentence the defendant to the maximum amount of time permitted by law,” argued Keegan Tinney, Newton County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, at the hearing. “The family has suffered extreme loss at the hands of the defendant’s own actions and we believe that sentence is appropriate.”

“The defendant has taken responsibility for his reckless actions that led to the senseless loss of life of Liberty Fowler,” said Newton County Prosecuting Attorney William Lynch. “There is nothing that the criminal justice system can do to restore this kind of loss, but we remain hopeful that this measure of justice brings closure to her grieving family.”

“We are here because of a tragic event and the loss of a life that should not have been taken,” pronounced Judge Selby at sentencing. “Nothing I do here brings her back, I would if I could.”

The case was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and prosecuted by Keegan Tinney and William Lynch of the Newton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Malpractice suit filed against Freeman, claims doctor botched Joplin man's surgery

A malpractice suit filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court claims a hernia surgery performed at Freeman Health System Surgical Associates left him permanently disabled and in pain.

The plaintiff in the case is Travis Newman McKinney, Joplin.

Listed as defendants are Freeman-Oak Hill Health System, Freeman Health System, Freeman Surgical Associates and Cory B. Emmert D. O.

From the petition:

On or about March 23, 2023, Defendant Emmert performed surgery to repair plaintiff’s hernia. During the course of said procedure Emmert stitched and injured the ilioinguinal nerve. Defendants continued to treat the plaintiff thru March 4th, 2024.

That defendants were negligent in identifying and preserving the nerves at or near the site of the aforesaid operative procedure, in stitching the said nerves and in failing to recognize that the nerves had been stitched and damaged prior to exiting the operative field.

The aforesaid negligent conduct of the defendants proximately caused or contributed to cause permanent pain and disability, medical treatment, medical expense and loss of income both past and future.

McKinney is represented by G. Michael Fatall, Kansas City.

Probable cause: Webb City man breaks kettle over girlfriend's head

A Webb City man has been charged with second-degree domestic assault after allegedly breaking a kettle over his girlfriend's head.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Kenneth Pippin, Jr. (DOB 1974) with bond set at $25,000 cash or surety.

From the probable cause statement:

The Victim and Kenneth were in an ongoing intimate relationship and lived together. During an argument where Kenneth accused the Victim of stealing his belongings, the Victim walked away.

Kenneth grabbed an electric kettle, and struck the Victim on the back of their head toward the top
causing a lump to form, and breaking the kettle. The neighbor overheard their commotion and went
to check on the Victim. The Victim had an inflamed circular bump about a quarter-inch in diameter
from where Kenneth struck them with the kettle. 

According to the victim, the lump was larger immediately following the assault and she had issues maintaining consciousness. After the incident, Kenneth said, through text message to the Victim, all the blood from the incident was his, and further threatened the Victim.

Newton County prosecutor asks for no bond or high bond for Neosho man charged with DWI in fatal crash

A 1 p.m. Monday, March 2 bond reduction hearing has been scheduled in Newton County Circuit Court for Isaac O'Neal, 23, Neosho, who is charged with driving while intoxicated-death of another, in connection with the February 20 collision that killed Mason McNutt, 23, Neosho.

O'Neal was arraigned Monday and entered a not guilty plea.

Newton County Prosecuting Attorney William Lynch filed a request that either O'Neal be held without bond or that a high bond be set. Lynch listed three reasons.

 

1. Defendant was residing in Newton County with the family of the Victim,

2. Defendant no longer has a place to stay in the State of Missouri,

3. Defendant’s family resides in the State of Georgia.

 Judge Jacob Skouby will preside over the bond reduction hearing.

 

Lawsuit allegation: Mount Vernon School District ignored safety hazards after repeated warnings

 

The former director of maintenance for the Mount Vernon R-5 School District filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the district today in Lawrence County Circuit Court.

Roger Brown, who worked for the district for 15 years, claimed he was fired after he repeatedly warned district officials of safety hazards in the high school agriculture room and shop, but was ignored.

Brown's concern led him to ask city officials for an inspection, which the district failed, according to the petition. After that, Superintendent Christina West fired Brown.

Before Brown filed his lawsuit, the district attempted to reach a settlement with him that would have prevented him from claiming unemployment, running for school board or ever speaking about what happened to him.

From the petition:

Beginning in early 2023, Brown identified and reported multiple fire-code violations and dangerous conditions located in the high school agriculture room and shop (the "AG/Shop") to the then-superintendent, Scott Cook.

Brown reported that the administration took no action to clean, remediate, or correct the hazards and violations he reported in the AG/Shop.

In April 2023, following a local business fire reportedly caused by large amounts of sawdust and wood flour, Brown emailed District administration and shop teachers a video warning about the dangers of sawdust and wood flour around open flames.

Superintendent Cook responded by chastising Brown for sending the video, while also acknowledging that Brown had made Cook and the District fully aware of the issues in the AG/Shop.

Cook further represented in writing that Fire Chief Brad Delay had inspected the AG/Shop and stated that the room was safe.

Brown then contacted Fire Chief Brad Delay and showed him Cook’s email; the Fire Chief stated that Cook’s representation was false and that the Fire Chief had stated there were safety violations in the AG/Shop.

From 2023 through 2025, Brown continued to report safety issues and violations in the AG/Shop to District administration.

During that period, Brown repeatedly warned that the AG/Shop contained three (3) large open-flame heaters in a room where sawdust and wood flour were present, including in the air, creating a serious ignition and fire hazard.

Brown also reported that dust-collection vents were not being properly cleaned and maintained. Brown further reported that exposed chemicals and rags were located near flammable equipment and that a large step-down transformer was uncovered and exposed.

Despite Brown’s repeated reports, the District took no corrective action to address the reported fire-code violations and dangerous conditions.

In March 2025, Brown requested an inspection and quote from Jameson Heating and Air ("Jameson") regarding the AG/Shop conditions.

Jameson conducted a free inspection and provided a detailed report indicating serious dangers and violations were present, and Brown provided the inspection report and quote to Superintendent Cook.

The District again took no action following receipt of the Jameson inspection report and quote.

Before the start of the 2025–2026 school year, Christina West (pictured) was named superintendent for the upcoming school year.  Brown provided Superintendent West with the previously reported dangers and
violations, including the Jameson inspection report and estimate.

Superintendent West disregarded the information and chastised Brown multiple times for attempting to address the hazards because remediation would cost money, including shouting, “[t]his is why we go around you on everything,’ in front of another maintenance employee, Steve.

In August 2025, in an effort to protect students and staff after years of inaction, Brown contacted the city building inspector, the city administrator, and the mayor to request an inspection of the AG/Shop.

Brown explained to city officials that he had attempted for several years to have District administration correct the violations and dangers without results, and that he therefore sought inspection by city officials with authority to evaluate the conditions.

City officials inspected the facility, documented multiple issues, and stated that if the issues were not corrected, the building might have to be closed.

The inspection results and related information were emailed to Superintendent West.

On or about August 7, 2025, Superintendent West chastised and yelled at Brown for bringing city officials in ‘behind her back.’

Brown told Superintendent West he had brought the safety issues to the District’s attention many times without results; Superintendent West yelled that Brown could not hire consultants, and Brown responded that he did not hire the city officials.

Brown was not provided any written discipline at that time, nor was any write-up presented to him or verbally issued to him as formal discipline on August 7, 2025.

From approximately August 11, 2025 through November 19, 2025, multiple emails were exchanged between the city and Superintendent West regarding the identified issues and Superintendent West’s claims that the issues had been fixed.

During this period, the District made no attempts to correct the violations outlined by the city.

On or about November 24, 2025, Brown was called into Superintendent West’s office for a meeting attended by Superintendent West and high school principal Dr. Prevo.

Superintendent West informed Brown he was being terminated for alleged willful misconduct, disobeying administrative directives, and missing work.

Brown demanded evidence supporting the allegations and stated that, in fifteen (15) years of employment, he had never received a write-up.

Superintendent West then produced a write-up dated August 7, 2025, that included a line stating Brown refused to sign; Brown stated the write-up had never been provided to him and the ‘refused to sign’ notation was false.

Superintendent West asserted Brown was insubordinate and claimed he disobeyed an order not to hire consultants; Brown again stated the City inspectors were not hired.

Superintendent West repeatedly told Brown to be quiet and interrupted him when he attempted to respond.

Superintendent West’s termination letter stated that Brown had never brought the AG/Shop issues to the administration’s attention and that he had missed work multiple times.

The termination letter was false as there is documentation supporting the fact Plaintiff raised concerns about the AG/Shop on multiple occasions.

The termination letter further indicated Brown was suspended and that his termination date would be December 31, 2025.

Brown was escorted out of the building and taken to the maintenance office to collect his belongings, and he was told he was not allowed to return to District property.

Upon arriving at the maintenance office, Brown discovered his computer had already been wiped, including emails and documents.

In December 2025 through January 2026, Brown received a proposed settlement agreement from the District that, if signed, would restrict Brown’s ability to pursue unemployment, would restrict his ability to seek a position on the school board, and would restrict his ability to speak about the District and Superintendent West; Brown refused to sign.

Brown accuses the district of retaliation, says he lost income and career opportunities and claimed the district's attempt to "buy his silence" caused him mental anguish because he needed the money but "was unwilling to be silent regarding potential health and safety violations."

Brown, who is represented by Timothy Alan Ricker of the Hall Ansley firm of Springfield, is asking for "fair and reasonable damages."

Carthage man pleads guilty to federal weapons charge

Jeromy Michael Daughtery, 32, Carthage, pleaded guilty today to in U. S. District Court in Springfield to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

No date has been scheduled for the sentencing.

According to the indictment, Daughtery was arrested with a firearm September 7.

Jasper County Circuit Court records indicate the Carthage Police Department arrested Daughtery that day and the Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney charged him with unlawful possession of a firearm and resisting arrest.

From the probable cause statement:

On 09/07/2025 at approximately 1417 I, Cpl. Snow, attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Jeromy Daughtery riding a bicycle for failing to signal as he turned south onto the 200 block of south Francis from the alley.

I turned on my emergency lights and chirped my siren at him. He did not turn around to look. He continued into the 300 block of Francis where he looked back at me, held up his hand signaling to wait. He continued east into the alley picking up speed attempting to elude me. I got along side him and passed him, stopping in front of him behind 313 Sophia. 

As I exited my vehicle Daughtery was tangled with his bicycle trying to run.

Daughtery got free from the bicycle and began running north towards the residence. Daughtery quickly tripped and fell to the ground on his stomach. I got on top of his back and got his hands behind his back.

Daughtery advised he had a gun on him. He said the gun was not his and that he had just taken it from a 16 year old. I asked Daughtery if he was a felon and he said yes.

Ellen Nichols announces run for state senate

(From the Ellen Nichols Campaign)

Dr. Ellen Nichols, a longtime Joplin neurosurgeon and community leader, announced today that she is running for the Missouri State Senate in the 32nd District in 2026, citing her readiness to put decades of high-stakes decision-making to work for Missouri families in Jefferson City.

For more than three decades, Dr. Nichols has served southwest Missouri as a practicing neurosurgeon, treating patients facing some of life’s most serious medical challenges. After completing her medical degree at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and an intensive neurological surgery residency at the University of Chicago Hospitals, she chose to build her career in Joplin—where she has practiced for over 33 years. Her work has included treating traumatic brain injuries, spinal disorders, and emergency neurological conditions, often in high-pressure, life-or-death situations.

“I can’t think of a better person to represent our community in the legislature,” said retired Crowder College professor, Curtis Daniels. “Dr. Nichols is one of the top neurosurgeons in the Midwest, and while I’d hate to see her leave medicine, knowing she’d bring that same level of care and discipline to reviewing the laws passed in Jefferson City would let me sleep a lot better at night.”

Those experiences, Dr. Nichols says, shaped her belief that government must be fiscally responsible, efficient, and focused on results. “In medicine, every decision has consequences,” she said. “You learn quickly to make smart choices with limited resources.” As a candidate, Dr. Nichols plans to emphasize balanced budgets, responsible spending, and respect for taxpayers who expect government to live within its means.

Dr. Nichols has also made clear that she would prioritize protecting innocent life by standing up for the unborn and supporting laws that respect the sanctity of life. A strong supporter of the Constitution, she has consistently defended the Second Amendment, believing law-abiding citizens have the right to protect themselves and their families.

Her medical background has also given her a deep appreciation for small businesses, particularly those struggling under rising healthcare costs and regulatory burdens. As a physician who has worked within complex healthcare systems, Nichols has firsthand experience navigating regulations, payroll, and compliance. She believes the same red tape hurting doctors and nurses is also choking local employers across Jasper and Newton Counties.

Dr. Nichols has spent years advocating for reform through the Missouri State Medical Association (MSMA), where she currently serves as secretary and previously served on its legislative affairs committee. In those roles, she has worked on issues such as ensuring patients receive physician-led care, and tort reform, aimed at reducing lawsuit abuse that drives up healthcare costs for families and employers alike.

Beyond her professional life, Dr. Nichols points to her strong Christian faith and deep family roots as central to who she is. She and her husband raised four children, including two who joined their family through foster care and adoption, and are now grandparents. She has been active in church life with the Salvation Army and remains committed to service beyond the operating room.

Local Republican leader and retired McAuley High School Principal, Gene Koester, said Dr. Nichols’ impact is already well known. “She has been a force for good in this community for years,” the supporter said, “From healthcare leadership to grassroots Republican work, Ellen has earned respect by showing up and doing whatever needed done.”

Another community member emphasized her personal values. Nathan Hicks, Salvation Army store manager, said, “Ellen’s faith and commitment to family aren’t just words. She’s lived them—through adoption, service, and a lifetime of putting others first.”

Dr. Nichols says any campaign she pursues will be grounded in conservative principles: cutting property taxes, stopping illegal immigration, protecting public safety, standing up for women by keeping men out of women’s sports and putting the health and well-being of Missouri families first. “As a physician, I’m trained to solve problems and focus on outcomes,” she concluded. “Missouri needs leaders who do the same.”

Nice Guys, Soul's Harbor fail Joplin Health Department inspections

Nice Guys, 101 North Range Line Road, and Soul's Harbor Kitchen, 915 S. Main, failed Joplin Health Department inspections recently, according to information posted on the department website.

In its inspection Monday, Nice Guys received two priority violations and three core violations.

The priority violations were for the following:

-The sanitizer dispenser wasn't working properly.

-The floor sink beneath the three-compartment sink wasn't draining properly.

The core violations were for the following:

-The floor beneath the three-compartment sink wasn't being cleaned often enough to maintain sanitary conditions.

-Ventilaton covers above the grill had an accumulation of grease

-Ceiling tiles were missing or in disrepair.

In its inspection Thursday, inspectors found two priority violation and two core violations at Soul's Harbor Kitchen.

The priority violations were for having chili and soup in the walk-in cooler with missing or improper date marking and for having mouse droppings in the storage closet.

The core violations were for not having enough light intensity in the walk-in cooler and having a floor tile in disrepair in the kitchen.

***

The following establishments received passing inspections:

Indo-Chinese Express, 4543 Highway 43 (re-inspection)

Chick-fil-A, 101 N. Range Line Road

Mac's Stop, 1302 S. Schieferdecker Avenue (re-inspection)

Elks Lodge: Restaurant, 1802 W. 26th Street

Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse, 511 N. Range Line Road

China Wok, 1130 E. 32nd Street

Schifferdecker Golf Course, 506 S. Schifferdecker Avenue

Walmart Neighborhood Market- Retail/Produce, 1600 E. 7th Street

Sonic Drive-In, 1600 E. 7th Street

4th Street Bowl, 1419 W. 4th Street

Twin Hills Main Dining/Jolly Boys Tavern, 2019 S. Country Club Road (re-inspection)

Sonic Drive-In, 720 S. Maiden Lane

Taco Stop, 1730 E. 7th Street

Quality Inn Breakfast, 3325 S. Arizona Avenue

Whiskey Dick's, 516 S. Joplin Avenue

Steak N Shake, 3115 Hammons Boulevard

Drury Inn Suites and Breakfast, 3601 S. Range Line Road

Sonic Drive-In, 3333 S. Range Line Road

Jill Carter bill would put personal information about every voter online

By Rudi Keller

Missouri Independent

Missouri Senators raised privacy concerns Monday during a hearing on a bill that would put personal information about every registered voter on a state website.

Under the legislation proposed by state Sen. Jill Carter, a Republican from Granby, the secretary of state’s office would be required to publish the full list of approximately 4.5 million registered voters on the office website. The list would have to include the voter’s name, address and date of birth along with a voter identification number, the township or ward where they reside and the precinct where they are assigned to vote.

“This seems like a lot of personal information that is going out there,” state Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Democrat from Kansas City, said during a hearing of the Senate Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee. “I have very serious privacy concerns about that being on a website.”

Voter registration lists are public records and the statewide list can be obtained with a Sunshine Law request and a nominal payment, Carter said during testimony to the committee. Making the entire voting list public, she said, “just helps the administrators and those poll watchers be able to ensure that the poll data is just timely before the election cycle.”

Carter’s office clarified that the intent of the bill was to ensure the most up-to-date information was provided to election judges and poll watchers on Election Day. Posting the material online was the result of a drafting error, and Carter said she would revamp the language of the bill before the committee takes a vote.

“I can go to my clerks and get a lot of that information, but in regards to a website, let me follow up and make sure of that,” she said.

Along with the provision to put voter lists online, the bill would extend a fee collected by the secretary of state’s office, require election tallies to be reported with separate totals for Election Day voting and absentee ballots and direct the office to assign a unique identifier for every voting district in the state.

Even though voter registration lists are public records, along with information about participation in particular elections, it is not generally available online.

The secretary of state’s website maintains a page where individuals can check voter registration but no individual’s information can be accessed without the exact name used for registration, as well as their birthdate and county of residence. In some instances, the user must also supply an exact street address.

State Sen. Sandy Crawford, a Republican from Buffalo, said she was worried that the information required in the bill would reveal personal information and how individuals actually voted in some smaller locations.

Along with the website list of voters, local election authorities would be required to report election results at the precinct and township levels, showing the vote on election day and the results from absentee ballots in separate tallies.

Some townships, Crawford said, have 50 or fewer registered voters.

“It seems like a lot of identifiable information, right when we have so many concerns about fraud and everything else,” she said.

Secretary of State Denny Hoskins supports the bill because it would extend a fee on business registrations that supports the office’s technology fund, said Amanda Bell, the office’s lobbyist. The $5 fee, first established in 1994, funds the office’s cybersecurity efforts and pays for computer upgrades for business and election systems, she said. The fee expires at the end of the year and the bill would extend the sunset for four years.

There was no discussion of the provision putting the secretary of state’s office in charge of assigning voting district designations. That is currently a local responsibility and has become an issue in one of the cases challenging the gerrymandered congressional district map passed last year by Republicans.

A trial was held in the case last week but no ruling has been issued.

Under questioning from the committee, Bell said only individual voter information was accessible online. It is available on request, she said.

“You’re not just going to go out there and get a whole list of everybody in the state,” Bell said. “That’s how it currently is.”

Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck, a Democrat from Affton, asked whether there was a need to publish the full voter list with birthdates and addresses.

“You can go check out your own,” Beck noted. “Why do we need this to be written down here?”

Bell said she did not know.

“I did not,” she said, “request that portion of the bill.”

Carl Junction man killed in collision at 171 and Ivy Road

A Carl Junction man was killed following a two-vehicle collision 6:45 p.m. Sunday on MO 171 and Ivy Road in Carl Junction.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 Dodge Ram driven by Johnny Alford, 68, Carl Junction, attempted to cross the highway and was struck by a 2022 Kenworth T680 driven by a 24-year-old Greeley Colorado man. (Note: Alford's name was not included in the Highway Patrol report, but comes from the Jasper County Coroner's office.)

Dr. Nathan Piccoli declared Alford dead at 5:24 a.m. today at Freeman West Hospital.

A passenger in the Alford vehicle, a 65-year-old woman, was treated for serious injuries at Mercy Joplin. The driver of the Kenworth was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy.

Another passenger in the Alford vehicle, a 3-year-old boy, was treated for minor injuries at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin.

The fatality was the 11th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Jill Carter announces bid for re-election

(From Jill Carter Campaign)

Senator Jill Carter announced her campaign for reelection to the Missouri State Senate, District 32, proudly serving the families of Jasper and Newton counties.

“When I first ran, I promised to be transparent and put our families and communities first—and I’ve kept that promise, ” said Senator Carter.

“Now I’m asking for the honor of another term so we can keep the government accountable and let the voices of southwest Missouri drive real change.”

Senator Carter graduated from East Newton High School and Crowder College. She knows the value of hard work, raising a family, and keeping the government from getting in the way. She is the proud mother of five and grandmother to two, and she stays deeply involved in her community every day.

Her passion for service comes from more than a decade of volunteering at the Missouri Capitol—on her own time and without pay—fighting for conservative values that strengthen our state. 

Determined to change how politics works, Senator Carter created local community boards so everyday residents can share real concerns and help shape the laws that affect their lives.

Her strong leadership has earned her several prestigious awards, including honors from the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association and the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. She has also been selected for national leadership awards with top organizations focused on policy and education.

Senator Carter has delivered results on the issues that matter most:

• Community Empowerment Legislation: Partnering state agencies with local communities and churches to help families regain dignity, achieve self-sufficiency, and build a brighter future.

• Supporting Law Enforcement: Passing bills that keep law enforcement accountable to local communities while giving them the tools and resources they need to protect us.

• Protecting Children: Strengthening laws against grooming, sexual abuse, and exploitation—and expanding the fight against sex trafficking across Missouri.• Advocating for Veterans: Securing an income tax deduction for veterans’ retirement benefits (including survivor benefits) and expanding property tax relief for disabled veterans and their spouses.

• Defending the 2nd Amendment: Filing multiple bills to protect every citizen’s constitutional right to keep and bear arms.

Driven by deep gratitude for the community that raised her, Senator Carter serves every day to give back and make southwest Missouri even stronger. Senator Carter stated, “Veterans, our first responders, protecting our children, and reforming public education will be priorities in my last term. I have and will always continue to prioritize the interests of my communities over that of special interests and the lobbyists they represent."

Monett man sentenced for assaulting ex-girlfriend

(From the Newton County Prosecuting Attorney)

A Newton County man has been sentenced to prison after entering a guilty plea to Domestic Assault in the Second Degree against an ex-girlfriend.

Adan Reveles, 29, of Monett, Missouri was sentenced to confinement for four years in the Missouri Department of Corrections by Charles Genisio of the 40th Judicial Circuit after pleading guilty as charged.

The charges stemmed from an investigation into a suicidal subject at a mobile home park on Highway 43 in Newton County. 

When deputies from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene, they located a domestic assault victim, whose name is not being released pursuant to office policy. That victim told the deputy that Reveles strangled her with both hands around her neck and separately placed his arm around the victim’s neck, restricting her airway to the point where she could not breathe. The deputy on scene noted numerous marks around the victim’s neck and other injuries that were consistent with her statement.

“Adan Reveles will now serve a prison sentence for his conduct. Accountability is essential to public safety, and this sentence reflects the seriousness of this offense,” said William Lynch, Newton County Prosecuting Attorney. 

“Justice must be exacting and this defendant, despite having no prior convictions, is receiving a just sentence. I appreciate the diligent work of our law enforcement partners and the patience and courage of our victim.”

This case was investigated by the Newton County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Nate Dally and William Lynch of the Newton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Neosho man killed in collision; driver cited for DWI

A Neosho man was killed in a two-vehicle collision 11:47 p.m. Friday on Jasmine Drive three miles northwest of Neosho.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1999 Mazda B Series driven by Isaac A. O'Neal, 23, Neosho, ran off the right side of the roadway, returned to the roadway and struck a Kawasaki Ninja driven by Mason McNutt, 23, Neosho.

McNutt was pronounced dead at 12:49 a.m. today at Mercy Joplin.

O'Neal was cited for felony driving while intoxicated.

The fatality was the ninth this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

(Note: The name of the driver who was cited for DWI came from the Highway Patrol arrest list. The name of the deceased came from the Newton County Coroner’s office and was initially reported by KSNF/KODE.)

Charges to be brought against juvenile in connection with series of Carthage business burglaries

(From the Carthage Police Department)

On February 19, 2026, at approximately 2:48 a.m., an officer was conducting directed patrols in the 200 block of West Fir Road, due to a rash of commercial burglaries in the area over the last few months. The officer observed a suspicious vehicle parked in front of a business in that same block.

Upon further investigation, the officer discovered the front of the business had been forcibly damaged and observed a masked individual inside actively burglarizing the business.

When the officer attempted to make contact, the suspect fled on foot. The officer pursued the suspect on foot for approximately one-half mile before the officer successfully took the suspect into custody without further incident.

The suspect was identified as a juvenile and was transported to the Jasper County Juvenile Office for holding.

Further investigation revealed the suspect had stolen a vehicle from a private residence earlier that same night and used the vehicle to force entry into the business.

The juvenile is the primary suspect in six additional recent commercial burglaries that have occurred within the city. The juvenile will be referred on multiple felony allegations, including burglary, property damage, stealing, tampering with a motor vehicle, and resisting arrest. These charges will be sent through the Jasper County Juvenile Office for consideration of charges.

Officer Hettinger’s alertness, initiative, and persistence were instrumental in bringing this incident to a safe and swift resolution.

This remains an active investigation, and no additional information is being released at this time.

Defendant sentenced to 10 years for assaulting officers at Joplin Detention Center

(From the Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's Office)

The Jasper County Prosecutor announces that on February 20, 2026, defendant, Jacob Blair, was sentenced to ten years for assault on law enforcement officers. 

The defendant pled guilty to two counts of class D felony Assault in the Third Degree. The defendant was charged on November 2, 2022, with assaulting the officers while in the custody of the Joplin Detention Center. 

A misdemeanor assault charge was dismissed along with another charge for attempted escape. Two other
cases were also dismissed as part of the plea. The defendant was sentenced to the Department of Corrections for a term of five years on each count and the sentences will run consecutively.

In case # 25AO-CR00765-01, defendant, Jayson Maloney, entered his plea of guilty to one count of Aggravated Fleeing, a class D felony, and one count of Tampering with a Motor Vehicle, a class D felony. 

The charges arose out of an incident that occurred on September 9, 2025, when the defendant led law enforcement on a high-speed chase while driving a stolen car. 

The defendant was sentenced to the Department of Corrections for a term of five years on each count. Those sentences will run concurrently.

These cases reflect the Jasper County Prosecutor’s ongoing commitment to punishing those who resist arrest or assault law enforcement officers.

Probable cause claim: Joplin woman stole $13,000 from her son for Downstream Casino jaunt

(Note: This post has been changed to reflect that it was the son, not the daughter who was allegedly victimized.)

A Joplin woman stole $13,000 from her son's home in Carl Junction to finance a gambling trip to Downstream Casino, according to a probable cause statement filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court.

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney filed a stealing charge against Cynthia L. Pearson-Shields (DOB 1977).

From the probable cause statement:

Between 10/29/2025 and 11/05/2025, the victims were out of state, and during that time Cynthia L. (Pearson) Shields was responsible for caring for their residence and admitted she was repeatedly inside their home. The suspect is the victim’s mother. 

Shields stated the residence was secured by a coded door lock and that the door code was sent directly to her by the victim via text message on 10/29/2025. 

Upon the victims’ return on 11/05/2025, a Sentry Safe cash box containing approximately $13,000 in U.S. currency was discovered missing, with no signs of forced entry and no other significant property taken. 

Shields initially denied knowing the location of the stolen cash box or the coffee container used to store change which was on top of the cash box. The coffee container would have had to be moved in order to access the cash box.

Shields stated in a text message to the victim that she did not know what change bucket investigators were referring to. During a later interview conducted by Det. Dagnan, Shields stated she would not be surprised if her fingerprints were found on the change container and admitted she had been inside the office where the safe was kept, had moved furniture in that room, and may have handled the container that had to be moved, 

Shields’ other son, Avien Shields, stated he was inside the residence on only one occasion without his mother during the time the victims were gone and denied any knowledge of the cash box or change container, denied taking any money, and stated that his mother had a gambling problem, and he did not
believe she was employed during this period of time. 

On 10/30/2025 Shields won a documented casino jackpot in the amount of $2,500 at Downstream Casino. 

Another witness, Jodee Halverson stated that she had accompanied Shields to the victim’s residence during the vacation period and remained in the vehicle while Shields entered the victim’s home alone, and that Shields returned with money which she handed out so they could go to the casino. 

A cosmetic item that had been left inside the residence for return was also discovered missing. Shields later admitted to the victim after being confronted, that she took that item. Shields provided inconsistent statements regarding who was present at the residence, the vehicles used, and the dates of entry.

Department of Natural Resources awards $50,000 grant to City of Carterville

(From the Missouri Department of Natural Resources)

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $50,000 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Carterville to evaluate the city’s wastewater system.

Through its Clean Water Engineering Report Grant program, the department offers funding to qualified small communities to help with evaluating public wastewater system improvements. The city will use the grant to identify wastewater system improvements needed to continue reliable service to the area, meet permit requirements and reduce inflow and infiltration of stormwater into sewer collection pipes. The facility plan should be complete in October 2027. 

“Investing in the wellbeing of Missouri’s infrastructure is a catalyst to economic growth and prosperity,” said Kurt Schaefer, director of the Department of Natural Resources.

Wastewater systems are essential infrastructure that support every community’s health and economic vitality. Through this grant, qualified communities can thoroughly assess their wastewater systems and identify improvements for better efficiency, effectiveness and service. 

During the assessment, communities can determine what actions are needed to address current needs and plan for future growth and development.

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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

Seneca Police Department ends use of Flock cameras

 

KOAM reports this evening that the Seneca Police Department will no longer be using Flock cameras.

From KOAM:

Beyond the technical and customer service issues, Chief  (James) Altic expressed concerns about reports of camera misuse throughout the country. These reports reinforced his decision to discontinue the program.

"There will have to be some legislation passed," he said. "There should have to be some better guidelines down the road. We do not want to be put in a position where there could possibly be anybody in the area that could get these cameras compromised."

The use of the Flock cameras has come under fire in many communities across the country, including Joplin, where a police officer was fired in January for allegedly misusing the license reading device.

The department became aware of problems with Flock due to a series of blog posts by Deflock Joplin Today, a blog that has investigated the use of Flock in Joplin for the past few months.

That investigation, which included public information requests to both the city and other government organizations, indicates the scope of the problems that face the City of Joplin and the Police Department.

These include a possible major lawsuit from at least one person who appears to have been stalked by the officer in question, with an apparent 395 license plate checks over a 14-month period that were labeled as "investigation."

(Screenshot from Flock Safety web page)

Carthage woman bound over for trial on second-degree murder charge

Candida Hudson, 39, Carthage, waived her preliminary hearing today in Jasper County Circuit Court and was bound over for trial for second-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with the December 12 shooting death of her boyfriend, Donald Webb.

Her arraignment is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. March 9 in Division 2.

Hudson claimed Webb committed suicide, according to the probable cause statement, but the Carthage Police Department didn't believe her version of events.

Hudson was taken for questioning and consented to gunshot residue tests, according to the probable cause statement, which showed residue on her left hand. Photos of her hands were taken, showing "visible blood."

From the probable cause statement:

During the interview, Hudson provided the following account:

She arrived home from work at 1745 hours and encountered Webb, her boyfriend of approximately one year, who appeared intoxicated. Webb had recently lost his jobs and was storing belongings in her apartment.

Hudson described ongoing conflicts related to Webb's alcohol use. She stated that an argument ensued during which Webb threatened suicide. She locked the balcony door while he smoked outside, then allowed him back inside.

Hudson further stated that Webb retrieved a firearm from the coffee table, removed it from its holster, and pressed it to his head. She attempted to intervene by grabbing the firearm with both hands, but Webb allegedly pulled it away with one hand and moved to the opposite end of the couch.

Hudson claim Webb then pulled the trigger, resulting in a self-inflicted gunshot wound. She denied owning or possessing any firearms and stated this was the only firearm in the residence, though she admitted knowing Webb had brought multiple firearms into the home on prior occasions.
Hudson reported calling 911 immediately, checking for vital signs as instructed and attempting to move Webb to the floor for CPR, but she claimed she was unable to do so due to his size.

Several inconsistencies and evidentiary contradictions were noted during the interview and subsequent scene analysis, establishing probable cause that Hudson's account was fabricated and she intentionally discharged the firearm resulting in Webb's death.The probable cause statement then detailed the alleged inconsistencies. Hudson had gunshot residue on her left hand, while Webb didn't have any residue on either hand.

This contradicts her claim of Webb firing the weapon himself.

The gun had blood on the right side of its frame, while there was no blood on the left side, indicating the shooter was left-handed, the statement said.

Hudson is larger than Webb, the statement said, questioning Hudson's claims that Webb could have taken the gun from her using one hand or that she couldn't move him from the couch to the floor after the shooting.The probable cause statement also noted Hudson's behavior.

Hudson displayed minimal remorse, referred to Webb in the past tense shortly after the incident and became defensive when confronted with discrepancies.

Charges filed after alleged sexual assault in MSSU dorm room

A Butterfield man was charged with sodomy today after allegedly assaulting a woman in a Missouri Southern State University dormitory room December 9.

An arrest warrant was issued for Louie Sanchez (DOB 2001) with bond set at $3,000 cash or $2,500 surety.

The probable cause statement, which was filed in Jasper County Circuit Court, detailed the allegation against Sanchez.

On December 10, 2025, Officer Poe #836 responded to a report of sexual assault involving Victim 1
and LS. Victim 1 reported that on December 9, 2025, after LS drove her back to her dorm following
a final exam, she was ill, running a fever, and believed she had COVID. 

She stated she informed LS she was sick; however, he entered her dorm room after stating he did not care. Victim 1 reported that while inside her room, LS intentionally touched her vaginal area underneath her clothing. She stated she repeatedly told him to stop and that he should not be doing that. 

Victim 1 said the contact continued for several hours. She reported feeling physically weak, feverish, and hallucinating, and stated she was unable to physically resist due to her illness. Victim 1 further stated she felt unable to refuse LS entry or contact due to prior incidents in which he threatened self-harm when she set boundaries. She reported no penetration occurred, describing the contact as “just shy of it.” 

Victim 1 declined a forensic exam but stated she wished to pursue charges. She reported this was not the first instance of LS touching her in a sexual manner without consent. Contact was attempted with LS by
phone. LS terminated the call after contact was made.

The case was investigated by the Missouri Southern State University Police Department.