Former Carl Junction student sues R-1 District, administrators, Craig Smith

 

Two Carl Junction R-1 administrators ignored pleas from a high school girl to stop junior high music teacher Craig Smith from harassing her, according to a lawsuit filed today in Jasper County Circuit Court.

In the petition, Michael S. Kilgore of the Independence law firm of Humphrey, Farrington & McClain, representing the girl, who is referred to as "Jane Doe" in the court filing, details Smith's years-long harassment, which ranged from bombarding her with messages, to contacting a boy she was dating, to possibly impersonating his own son in a message to her in an effort to to get her to talk to him.

Smith is awaiting trial in Jasper County Circuit Court on charges of stalking and possession of child pornography.

In addition to Smith, the Carl Junction R-1 School District, Assistant Superintendent Kyle Williams, who was Carl Junction High School principal at the time Jane Doe attended the school, and Nicole Keller, Carl Junction High School assistant principal, are listed as defendants.

The district is being sued for violation of the Missouri Human Rights, while Smith, Williams and Keller are being sued for negligence.

Defendants Williams and Keller were each aware of incident(s) and/or behavior(s) that they knew could constitute discrimination, harassment or retaliation in violation of policy AC and/or ACA, and therefore had a mandatory, non-discretionary, and ministerial duty to immediately make a report to the District. Their failure to do so breached the foregoing mandatory, ministerial non-discretionary duties, and they were thereby negligent. Defendant Smith had mandatory ministerial non-discretionary duties contained in Policy GBH to refrain from making sexual advances or engaging in illegal harassment and discrimination towards Plaintiff, but Defendant Smith failed to do so.

Smith's alleged harassment of Jane Doe is detailed in the petition:

Defendant Smith had contact with Plaintiff in elementary school choir and trumpet lessons while serving as a District employee.

When Plaintiff moved to the Junior High School to attend seventh grade in the District, Defendant Smith also transferred positions to teach choir in the Junior High School, where he served as the Plaintiff’s choir teacher.

When Plaintiff moved to the High School for her freshman year in August 2021, Defendant Smith attempted to transfer positions to teach in the High School but ultimately continued to teach in the Junior High School.

Throughout Plaintiff’s High School attendance in the District, Defendant Smith continued to communicate with Plaintiff through cards, letters, text messages, phone calls, and in-person communications. These communications were unwanted by Plaintiff and harassing to

Defendant Smith exhibited a pattern of behavior by sending Plaintiff written cards, letters, texts, gifts, and photos, expressing affection and pursuing an intimate relationship that was unwanted by Plaintiff and prohibited by District policies.

Defendant Smith gave Plaintiff cards and letters that were harassing, unwanted, and prohibited by District policy, to wit:

• I hope when you get this you will enjoy it and love it and smile at it, because I always smile @ my food before I eat it! If you want to send me a pic of you and your treat bag, I would love it! Have fun cheering tonight, it’s supposed to get cold and storm! Let me know how it goes!

• [Redacted] – I hope you always know I am here for you, if you ever need to talk about your grandpa, family, school, me, You, I am always here!

• Dear [Redacted] – Hello. I am sorry for things that I have said that have been hurtful to you. I, honestly, from the bottom of my heart, was not trying to do that. In your text, you said “Im a good person”. I do not feel like a “good person”. In fact, I feel miserable. I sometimes struggle with things. I try not to, but sometimes I do. I try to be a better person. I try to do my best for you. But, regardless of all of the great, fun, and interesting times we have shared, I feel that I still cannot do anything right. I have done the worst thing to you, I added so much stress to your life, that you seemingly, do not want to
have anything to do with me. I genuinely was just trying to help and be there for you.

However, I failed. I made you push me away. I know and understand why you are no longer reading or responding to my texts. I’ve really screwed this up, and there is not anything I wouldn’t do to fix it. I am praying that God will heal your heart towards me, and I am praying that He will just “fix” me. I have been very concerned about your mom, and have prayed for her since I found out. Please consider forgiving me. I am trying to do better. I don’t feel good about myself, because I have hurt you. *Would
you please text or call me? I am truly sorry, [Redacted]

• Dear [Redacted] – Hello – as much as it pains me to write this, I feel as if I need to …partly to remind me, but partly so you know that I know – I have sincerely loved and cared for you for a long time, not in an inappropriate way, but in the truest form of what I think loving & caring for another person is. For many day & nights, and throughout the years, I would anticipate seeing you the next day & having fun & awesome interaction I would try to think of what I could do to make your day the best day ever! Or at least better than it was. I honestly put You before myself each and every day, because I thought it was the right thing to do. The 1st time you quit talking to me was when you started dating the boy from Kansas, it hurt & I didn’t understand what I had done. Then we started talking again, I was cautiously optimistic . . . . and then we started talking more & more & more! We had planned on you coming over to eat cookout steaks & stuff, we had met for lunch, sot ice cream @ DQ, talked some on the phone,
and was just having fun! I loved every minute of it! It reminded me of how things used to be. Then all hell broke loose w/ your teacher, Daly & I lost my mind. Kids kept telling me this and asking me that. Mr. Williams was texting & calling me. With everything else that was going on in my life, I was on overload. I went into extreme protection mode, because I didn’t want you to be hurt. I wasn’t seeking out anything. I didn’t want to know. I just wanted to protect you. Then it seems as if people were making you think I was lying to you, and you got mad @ me & told me “you genuinely didn’t have to talk to me”. I wanted to talk to you more because I knew you were over stressed – I was trying to tell you – I’M HERE FOR YOU, [REDACTED]! USE ME!!

I guess I should’ve known then, what I know now. I kept telling myself to not let this happen again (you not talking to me) I try to make each day a new day & be optimistic, and think – “hey, [redacted] will talk to me again & all will be back to normal” – But I have come to the realization that “[redacted] is not going to talk to me & things will not be the same”. For what its worth – I didn’t cause or desire any of that drama w/ your teacher. I should’ve never got involved…. I was only trying to protect & care for
you. From what I was told that Friday night, I was only trying to save you from being humiliated on Monday morning. However, I lament, look @ where we are at today – You hate me – Your mom 100% hates me – your grandma has blocked me (I was only asking about preaching @ her church & how grandpa [redacted] killed moles.) & most likely hates me, & [redacted] has blocked me & hates me too. I’ve been a real blessing & inspiration to you, right? NOT! Not at all. Ive been a complete fool, who has allowed Satan to corrupt my thoughts & actions. I’ve allowed Satan to manipulate my fears & the thought of losing your friendship take over. I’ve never been mad or upset w/ you.

Obviously, I’m not very smart! As I keep trying to talk to people who want nothing to do w/ me. I’m sorry [redacted] – a billion time over, I’m sorry. See Matthew 18:21-22 I hurt each & every day…. I keep thinking it will stop, but it doesn’t. Some days are ok, but most aren’t. I know I’ve hurt you & I know I’ve ruined every thing we worked so hard for. I truly hold out hope each & every day that someday we will have faith in each other & trust each other enough to be close friends again. I – as in ME take full blame for all of this. I know I’ve sent you a TON of Bible verses. I hope they have helped to encourage you. I’ve put treats & gifts in your mailbox & cones w/ baseballs on your pole. I know I’ve text you, even being blocked. Sent some snaps but no drama, just trying to be positive & encouraging. [Redacted] YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL SOUL! When you were hurting sooooo bad on that Thursday, before all of this went down, all I wanted to do was take your pain away. I meant is soooo much when I text you afterwards that “I loved you soooo much”. I was honored to be there for you. I wanted to be there for you. Always wanted to be there for you.

• Give me some sign that you have re-opened your heart to me. You see [redacted] –Jesus saves, Jesus forgives, He saved me, He save you. He forgave me, He has forgiven you. Christ does awesome things for us each day. But one of the greatest things He did in my life was to bring this sweet girl named [redacted], born [redacted] in my life. Because of you, [redacted], my life is changed for the better. I truly hope to talk to you sooner than later. Bye – love – Smith

• I have never talked trash or badly about you & your family. I truly do love & care for you & your family. You all are great people & I am truly blessed by your friendship –Smith

• But hear me out – this is how well I know you – when I gave you your food on our super secret spy mission (SSSM) I knew something was up. I was headed to Neria, & I thought I need to turn around, [redacted] needs me. Instinct? Knowing you? Or God directing me to do so? Regardless – I knew you needed to talk. I could feel that vibe from you. To close – (you are thinking…about time) I just need to tell you. You have been someone in my life that means so much to me that it hurts so bad to lose you.
There’s not 1 thing on this Earth that I wouldn’t do for you to make you happy. Which brings me to this – it would seem to make you truly happy – that you want me to leave you alone & be out of your life. As sad (and yes I’m crying) as it makes me, I want to do what is best for you. I will try my best to honor you and your wish. If anything ever changes, and you find it within your heart to let me back in, I’m here. I’m waiting for you, [redacted]. All you have to do is text me, call me, Face Time me, yell @ me, call my name out or stop by.

22. Defendant Smith sent text messages to Plaintiff that were harassing, unwanted, and

prohibited by District policy, to wit:

• Text Message Sat., October 21, 2023 at 8:19 A.M.: It’s like last night after the game— I called out ur name—u made a direct line to ur other teacher—totally ignored me—I can’t make u talk to me, i can’t make u have a relationship with me, but I can guarantee—if I was the other dude—and i used to be—I wouldn’t have to beg u to open up and talk to me. I was so upset last night it was hard to announce and focus. if u think for a second that I don’t want to be that person again….think again…i do…I’ve
tried…later in the summer when we were Trying to get [redacted] to invite you over….so u could eat and hang out….on multiple occasions…..I TRIED MY BEST. there was nothing more then I wanted to do then to spend time with u. u have to befriend [redacted] again. he doesn’t listen to me. I wanted to give u ur cookie cake in person but u wouldn’t give me the time of day. but if I was the other person u would make time to make it happen. U told someone else u were mad at me because I lied to u. I, to my
knowledge, have never lied to u. I get it [redacted]…until u talk to me there is nothing more I can say or do.

• Text Message Sat., October 21, 2023 at 9:26 P.M.: Hey! Have a fun trip home. I just wanted to tell you, [redacted] I really am invested in you. It doesn’t matter what the cost it doesn’t matter what I need to do. I am invested in you as a person and someone that you know that I really do care about. It’s not a short term deal. You should know that. At times we’re going to get frustrated at each other and at times we’re gonna say and do stupid things. But I know it with those times happen that you don’t hate me you
have to know I don’t hate you. I don’t want you to ever be afraid of talking to me or spending time with me. I love telling you to have a good day in the morning. Of course I love telling you good night in the evening. I hope that doesn’t bother you. And of course I just love talking to you any other time. Plz don’t be afraid to talk to me. Also I am no longer mad or frustrated or upset at u. I hope I will forgive me too. U know u can trust me. Have a good night and I hope to talk to you sometime soon.!!!

• Text Message Tue., November 14, 2023 at 3:37 P.M.: hi [Redacted]—u probably wonder “why?” do I still send u messages. i don’t’t think of it as necessarily “texting” just talking. just because it’s the only way i have to talk to u. sometimes—i do think— maybe u don’t’ want to talk to me—maybe ur mad at me—maybe u r just waiting for me to go away—maybe ur scared—or maybe u have been told not to talk to me….but the main thing that I pray for is that u will just talk to me again someday. I hope u never have to go through this anyone….it sucks…..and it hurts and it’s humiliating. Now— back to the “why”…i thought of a top 5 of “why”…. 5—ur fun to talk to 4—u r genuinely a nice person 3—u have good stories to tell 2—we always have stuff to talk about 1—u r worth listening to again-im sorry for all of the hurtful things i have said to u. i hope u pray for me, u know I pray for u. I hope u take the time to read these. 

Im not mad at u—i am disappointed in how all of this has turned out. Neither of us havemade a lot of good choices throughout this entire ordeal. u may think—why can’t I move on…the answer is easy—I hurt u—until u reach out to me and tell me that u forgive me….i can’t move on. i told u before….even when I’m 80 something and ur 60 something….i still will always love, care and remember u. you and ur life mean a lot to me. But ultimately…i cannot continue to beg u to be my friend…or to talk to me…or to do stuff with our family….I’ve repeatedly asked u to forgive me and to not give up on me…I’m not trying to trick u or manipulate u in any way….i genuinely like u [redacted]…..I just don’t know if I could ever treat a person that I genuinely cared for like that. im not stupid and at some point may realize u don’t want me a part of ur life and then i will be gone forever. i hope that never happens. But I will tell you it would be a mistake on both of our parts to not have the friendship that we’ve been having over the years. 

You can’t base our friendship based on your friendship with [redacted]. You know how he is. And it’s not fair to base our friendship over what’s happened in th last month. You and I already had a connection with our lives even before we started doing anything. i just pray every night that I’ll wake up some morning and u will have sent me a message letting me know everything is ok and we can talk freely as we did before. I did have a couple of hs students bring me a sonic drink today. I appreciated that. We r gonna eat at the mall tonight around 5:45ish. U r more than welcome to join us. Hope u had a good day.

Defendant Smith had in-person communications with Plaintiff that were harassing, unwanted, and prohibited by District policy.

Defendant Smith had phone communications with Plaintiff and Plaintiff’s mother that were harassing, unwanted, and prohibited by District policy.

The communications from Defendant Smith were distressing, harassing, and unwanted. The harassment occurred on a continuing basis while Plaintiff was less than 18 years of age.

Complaints were made to the District about the conduct of Defendant Smith, but no effective remedial action was taken.

In the fall of 2023, Plaintiff’s mother sought meetings with Defendant Williams to discuss the ongoing harassment by Defendant Smith but those meetings were cancelled by Defendant Williams.

In January 2024, Plaintiff’s mother met with Defendant Keller to address the ongoing harassment by Defendant Smith, but Defendant Keller refused to discuss Defendant Smith or his actions because Defendant Smith was a middle school teacher.

Defendant Keller refused to review written communications Plaintiff received from Defendant Smith.

On January 29, 2024, Plaintiff’s mother met with Defendant Williams to address the ongoing harassment by Defendant Smith, but Defendant Williams refused to discuss Defendant Smith or his actions because Defendant Smith as a middle school teacher.

Defendant Williams refused to review written communications Plaintiff received from Defendant Smith.

Within days of that meeting between Plaintiff’s mother and Defendant Williams, the mother of Plaintiff’s friend contacted Scott Sawyer who was employed by the District as the Junior High School principal to report the written communications Plaintiff had received from Defendant Smith. Principal Sawyer indicated concerns about Defendant Smith were to be handled by Superintendent Cook.

The following day, the mother of Plaintiff’s friend reported Defendant Smith’s conduct to the Carl Junction Police Department.

The continuous harassment by Defendant Smith was so severe that the mother of Plaintiff’s friend contacted the police to ensure Plaintiff’s safety and the safety of other students because the District continuously failed to take effective remedial action to address Defendant Smith’s conduct.

Defendant Smith continued his harassment of Plaintiff on an ongoing basis because the District failed to take effective remedial action.

On or about August 9, 2024, Defendant Smith attended the high school band rehearsal where Plaintiff was performing as a band member. Defendant Smith stared and leered at Plaintiff for a prolonged time. Defendant Smith’s conduct was noticed by Plaintiff and was harassing and distressing to Plaintiff. Defendant Smith’s conduct was noticed by Plaintiff’s mother and others present at the rehearsal.

On or about August 9, 2024, Defendant Smith showed up at the mall food court where Plaintiff was eating with her friends. Defendant Smith sat a few tables away from Plaintiff and tried to get her attention by staring, leering, and waiving at her. Defendant Smith’s conduct was noticed by Plaintiff and was harassing and distressing to Plaintiff.

On or about August 9, 2024, Defendant Smith sent a text message to Plaintiff’s mother which was harassing and distressing to Plaintiff, to wit:

• Text Message Fri., August 9, 2024: [Redacted]-hello-I truly and sincerely hope that life is treating you and your family well. I saw [redacted] today at the mall. I waved, but she probably didn't see me. Haha. I just wanted to say how proud I am of [redacted] and her high standards that she sets for herself. I know that she will reach any goal that she sets for her life. It was a true honor and unique pleasure to
watch her grow up for many years. She has grown into a fine young lady. I still remember those first sounds out of her trumpet and how excited she was to play. It was a true honor to be her teacher and at one point a trusted friend. There was nothing more that I wanted for her than the very best. Through the good times and the tough times, I always tried to do my best for her and your family. It is my sincere
prayer that her senior year is the absolute best. I still lift you all up in prayer each night. Take care and be blessed.

Due to the ongoing harassment by Defendant Smith, Plaintiff was reluctant to post on social media about dating an age-appropriate individual because Defendant Smith contacted Plaintiff’s previous boyfriend.

On or about August 12, 2024, Plaintiff posted a picture of her boyfriend on her social media account.

On or about August 16, 2024, Plaintiff’s best friend received a text message from the phone of Defendant Smith’s son, asking who Plaintiff was dating. Plaintiff rarely spoke to Defendant Smith’s son. Based on information and belief, the text was sent by Defendant Smith, which was harassing and distressing to Plaintiff.

On or about September 5, 2024, Defendant Smith entered the high school office where Plaintiff was serving as the office student aide. Defendant Smith stared and leered at Plaintiff for a prolonged time, which was distressing, harassing and retaliatory to Plaintiff in continuous violation of Missouri law.

On or about September 5, 2024, Plaintiff described the incident in the high school office to her mother in the following text message:

• Text Messages Thurs., September 5, 2024: Mr. Smith was just in the office to pick up [Redacted] and he was literally burning a hole through me, I could feel him staring at me I was so scared, officer Danny was in there too and so was Mr. Graham so I just looked back at Mr. Graham until he left but he stayed for so long.

You could tell that Danny didn’t care a bit.

This ongoing and continuous conduct by Defendant Smith was harassing, distressing, discriminatory, and retaliatory, thereby denying Plaintiff full and equal access to her public education.

Defendant District, Defendant Williams, and Defendant Keller continuously discounted, ignored, and/or minimized Defendant Smith’s actions and refused to take effective remedial action, which was distressing to Plaintiff and discriminatory based on Plaintiff’s sex in continuous violation of Missouri law.

The report to law enforcement resulted in criminal investigation of Defendant Smith and a child welfare investigation due to the continuous and ongoing harassment of Plaintiff by Defendant Smith.

On January 13, 2025, the Missouri Department of Social Services issued a determination finding emotional abuse and harassment by Defendant Smith towards Plaintiff through messages, letters, gifts, and in person contact.

On January 17, 2025, the Prosecuting Attorney for Jasper County, Missouri, charged Defendant Smith with the class E felony of stalking in the first degree by Complaint filed in Case No. 25AO-CR00075.

On January 17, 2025, the Prosecuting Attorney for Jasper County, Missouri charged Defendant Smith the class B felony of possession of child pornography by Complaint filed in Case No. 25AO-CR00074.

As a direct and proximate result of Defendants’ acts and omissions alleged herein, Plaintiff has suffered and will continue to suffer emotional distress, mental anguish, anxiety, loss of sleep, distrust of authority, and other manifestations. Plaintiff has incurred expenses and will incur expenses in the future for necessary therapy, counseling and treatment, and will suffer a loss of earning capacity.

Jane Doe is asking for compensatory damages, attorney fees and costs and is demanding a jury trial.

Smith's trial is scheduled to begin Wednesday, April 15 in Jasper County Circuit Court.

Missouri Southern, Fort Scott Community College formalize agribusiness degree partnership

(From Missouri Southern State University)

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) and Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) formalized a new academic partnership on January 30, 2026, during a signing ceremony held at FSCC in Fort Scott, Kansas.

The agreement establishes a “2+2” transfer pathway for students pursuing a degree in agribusiness. Under the partnership, students will complete their first two years at FSCC before transferring to MSSU to finish the final two years and earn a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness.

“This new agreement with Fort Scott Community College creates a clear and seamless pathway for students,” said Dr. Dean Van Galen, president of MSSU. “By working together, we are creating greater access to higher education while meeting the needs of our agricultural industry in the Four States.”

“The signing of this 2+2 articulation agreement between Fort Scott Community College and Missouri Southern State University creates a pathway for our agriculture students to transfer and complete their bachelor’s degree without losing a single credit,” stated Dr. Jack Welch, FSCC president. “It reflects a strong alignment between two outstanding programs and a shared commitment to student success. By working together, we’re removing barriers, maximizing opportunity, and ensuring our students can move forward with confidence toward their academic and career goals.”

Academic leaders at both institutions say the partnership reflects the continued commitment to expanding educational access and supporting student success.

“I am very excited about what this agreement represents for our students and our region. It strengthens collaboration between our institutions, supports workforce and leadership development in agriculture, and reinforces our shared commitment to student success,” said Sara Sutton, agriculture department chair at FCSS.

“This agreement is an exciting opportunity for students interested in agribusiness to build a strong foundation and continue their education without interruption,” said Megan Douglas, associate dean of the Plaster School of Business at MSSU. “By joining forces, MSSU and FSCC are empowering students to pursue their career goals locally and contribute meaningfully to the agriculture sector in our communities.”

Students may begin coursework for the program as early as Fall 2026.

Principals named at Neosho High School, South Elementary, Goodman Elementary

(From the Neosho R-5 School District)

We are excited to share an update regarding administrative assignments for the 2026–2027 school year. These assignments reflect the strength of our district and the exceptional leaders we continue to develop from within. These transitions are a celebration of leadership growth, thoughtful succession planning and our commitment to positioning the right people to best serve students, staff, and families.

Emily Abell

We are thrilled to announce that Emily Abell, who currently serves as assistant principal at Neosho Junior High, has been selected as the next principal of South Elementary. Emily’s promotion reflects her strong leadership, dedication to students, and proven ability to serve school communities well. This appointment is especially meaningful as it marks a return to South Elementary, where Emily previously served as a teacher and built lasting relationships with students and staff. We are excited to welcome her back in this new role and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make as principal.

Tyler Gordon

We are excited to announce an important leadership transition at Neosho High School. Tyler Gordon, currently serving as principal at Goodman Elementary, has been selected as the next principal of NHS. Tyler brings a wealth of experience, including five years teaching experience at NHS, valuable secondary-level administrative leadership from his time in Parsons, Kansas, along with a deep commitment to student growth, academic excellence and fostering a strong, positive school culture. We are confident Tyler’s leadership will build upon the great work already happening at NHS and lead the school into an exciting next chapter.

Elaine Branham

As part of this transition, we are excited to announce that Elaine Branham, currently serving as assistant principal at George Washington Carver Elementary, has been selected as the next principal of Goodman Elementary. Elaine’s promotion marks a meaningful return to a campus where she previously served for many years as a teacher and instructional coach. Her deep institutional knowledge, strong instructional leadership and longstanding connections to the Goodman community will provide exceptional continuity and support for both students and staff. We are thrilled to welcome Elaine back to Goodman in this new leadership role and look forward to the positive impact she will make.

Natalie Cowley named director of language services for Carthage R-9

(From the Carthage R-9 School District)

We’re proud to announce that Natalie Cowley has been selected as the new Director of Language Services!

Natalie brings more than a decade of experience in bilingual education, dual language programs, and student support. Most recently, she served as a principal in Illinois, leading a K–3 dual language school, and her earlier work in rural Alaska helped shape her people‑first, community‑centered approach to education.

She will succeed longtime leader Jana Sawyer, who is retiring after more than 30 years of service. We are deeply grateful for the incredible foundation she built for Carthage students and families.

Agendas posted for Carthage R-9 Board special session, work session

 

Former Carthage postal worker sentenced for gift card theft

A former worker at the United States Postal Service in Carthage was sentenced to two years of probation today during a hearing in U. S. District Court in Springfield after pleading guilty last year to stealing $300 worth of Walmart gift cards.

The thefts took place December 20, 2024.

The crime was described in the plea agreement filed in October.

On January 16, 2025, United States Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) received a mail theft allegation from customer H.C. H.C. advised that she had mailed two envelopes from the Carthage, Missouri, Post Office located at 226 W. 3rd Street, Carthage, Jasper County, Missouri, within the Western District of Missouri. 

H.C. advised that she mailed the two envelopes that contained three, $100 Walmart Gift Cards. H.C. told postal officials that the two envelopes never reached the intended destination. H.C. advised that she had mailed these envelopes on December 20,2024.

On January 29,2025, Special Agent (SA) Christopher Eby with the USPS-oIG requested and received grand jury subpoenas to Walmart to obtain records related to the three missing gift cards. The purpose of the subpoenas was to determine if the gift cards had been redeemed at a Walmart. 

On January 31,2025, SA Eby received receipt copies and still image video surveillance clips related to the location and the date in which the gift certificates were redeemed. SA Eby contacted the Postmaster for the Carthage Post Office and asked if she could identify the individual depicted in the pictures and videos. 

The Postmaster immediately identified that person depicted redeeming the stolen gift cards as the
defendant, Karla Ann Marie Griffin.

Investigators determined that the defendant was working at the Carthage, Missouri, Post Office on the day that H.C. had mailed the two envelopes with the three gift cards. Investigators determined that the defendant did have access to these gift cards and when combined with the document and video evidence provided by Walmart, the defendant had used her position of trust as an employee with USPS to steal the mail matter mailed by H.C. on December 20,2024.

Through the above facts and as a part of the defendant's plea to the sole count of the Information, the defendant further admits that, on or about December 20,2024, said date being approximate, the defendant, at that time an employee of the United States Postal Service, had, through her position with the Postal Service, possession of gift cards that were intended to be conveyed by mail, and she stole the money and gift cards with the intent to convert them to her own personal use. All in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

The defendant further admits that as a result of her criminal conduct, detailed above, she caused $300.00 of loss to a USPS customer. She agrees to pay restitution of no less than $300.00 as a part of her plea agreement.

Sentencing set for Joplin woman on meth trafficking, weapons charges

A 1:45 p.m. March 3 is sentencing is scheduled for Tiffany Nicole Henson-Brueen, 38, Joplin, who pleaded guilty October 2 to methamphetamine trafficking and possession of a weapon in furtherance of drug trafficking.

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

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

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

Gun-wielding woman in parking lot causes lockdown at Mercy Aurora

(From the Aurora Police Department)

On the morning of February 2, 2026, Aurora Police Department officers were requested to assist the Mt. Vernon Police Department with a combative subject who was being transported to the Aurora Mercy Hospital.

Upon arrival at the hospital, officers located an adult female in the parking lot of the Emergency Department who was in possession of a firearm and acting aggressively. 

Due to the close proximity to the hospital entrance and the presence of bystanders, officers were required to take immediate action to protect public safety.

Verbal commands were given in an attempt to have the suspect disarm herself. When those efforts were unsuccessful, officers distracted the suspect and deployed a Taser twice. During the ensuing struggle, the suspect discharged one round from the firearm before it was wrestled from her possession. No individuals were struck by the fired round.

As a precautionary measure, hospital staff were advised to temporarily lock down the facility to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the public. The suspect was secured and provided medical attention.

This incident is being investigated by multiple local law enforcement agencies and remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

The suspect will face multiple felony crimes based on this incident. She is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. No citizens or law enforcement were injured during this incident.
There is no further threat to the public at this time.

Will King named Seneca High School principal

(From the Seneca R-7 School District)

The Seneca R-VII School District is excited to announce the hiring of Will King as the next Principal of Seneca High School. A familiar and trusted leader in the Seneca community, King is a 1995 graduate of Seneca High School and brings more than two decades of experience serving Seneca students and families.

“Will King is a proven leader who has consistently built a strong culture and climate while maintaining high standards for learning,” said Dr. Brandon Eggleston, Superintendent of Seneca R-VII Schools. “Seneca High School has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and I know Mr. King will not only continue that momentum, but also strengthen the great work taking place for our students, staff, and community.”

King currently serves as Principal of Seneca Intermediate School, a position he has held since 2016. He began his career in the Seneca School District more than 23 years ago as a math teacher at Seneca High School. After two years in the Chadwick School District as an Athletic Director, Head Boys Basketball coach, and teacher, King returned to Seneca in 2004, where he taught math and physical education. He also served as Head Boys Basketball Coach from 2004–2022.

King holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Math Education from Missouri Southern State University, a Master’s Degree in Administration from William Woods University, and a Specialist Degree in District Administration from Arkansas State University.

“I consider myself truly blessed that most of my career has been spent in the Seneca School District,” King said. “Seneca is a special district and community - full of tradition, pride, and class. I believe strongly in positive relationships and collaboration, and I am excited to begin this new role by partnering with our outstanding high school staff as we continue preparing students for success beyond high school.”

King and his wife, Lisa, are proud members of the Seneca community. Lisa has served as an administrative assistant at Seneca Elementary School for 18 years. Together, they have three daughters: Addie (2019), Mallorie (2022), and Jolie, who is currently a 10th grade student at Seneca High School. Will and Lisa are also proud grandparents to four grandchildren.
King will officially begin his duties as SHS principal on August 1st.

Jason Smith: Restoring a health care system that puts patients first

(From Eighth District Congressman Jason Smith)

For too many American families, workers, and seniors, health care is increasingly unaffordable, with double digit premium increases now going into effect on an annual basis. When many Americans think of health insurance, they think of higher costs, soaring deductibles, denied claims, and increased stress from something that is meant to improve their lives. But what enrages so many working families even more is that while they are struggling to find the money to pay for it all, health insurers are posting record profits and consolidating greater control over America’s health care system. 

That is exactly why I called the CEOs of five of the nation’s largest health insurance empires to testify in front of the Ways and Means Committee: to get answers about why costs keep climbing, figure out what can be done to fix our health care system, and to hold folks accountable for their decisions.

Today, the average family health insurance plan costs roughly $27,000 a year. Individual deductibles routinely exceed $3,000, and family deductibles can reach $10,000 or more. Since the Un-Affordable Care Act (ACA) — also known as Obamacare — was enacted, premiums in Obamacare’s Health Exchanges have increased by roughly 80 percent, while families face out-of-pocket maximums exceeding $20,000. But the exploding cost of health insurance extends well beyond Obamacare, which covers only about 7 percent of Americans. Employer-sponsored plans — covering more than 160 million people — are now experiencing their largest premium increases in more than a decade.

One of the most troubling revelations from the hearing we held was how difficult insurers are making it for patients. Roughly one in five medical claims is denied. Patients are left navigating bureaucratic systems designed around insurer priorities instead of individual needs, while consolidation has reduced competition and choice. Today, just three insurers control nearly half of the national market, and three pharmacy benefit managers dominate roughly 80 percent of drug benefits. While costs for families rise, these health insurance empires rake in nearly $1 trillion in annual revenue, while their executives are rewarded with tens of millions of dollars in bonuses.

The hearing also underscored the role Democrats’ failed health care policies have played in driving these outcomes. Open-ended subsidies and rigid Washington mandates that may have been intended to expand access and lower costs, have instead rewarded higher spending, consolidation, and complexity. Federal programs lacking proper guardrails have become magnets for waste and fraud, with taxpayers footing the bill. Despite trillions of dollars flowing through the system, families are paying more and getting less in return.

These failures are felt even more intensely in rural communities like south-central and southeast Missouri. When costs rise and access shrinks, rural hospitals and clinics — already operating on thin margins — are often the first to feel the strain. Families in rural areas already face fewer provider options, longer travel times for care, and higher out-of-pocket burdens, making affordability not just a financial issue, but a question of access to care itself.

The takeaway from the Ways and Means Committee hearing was clear: the status quo is not working, and Americans deserve better. That is why President Trump’s Great Healthcare Plan — which he announced on January 15 — is so important. The President’s plan lays out a framework focused on restoring affordability by strengthening competition, increasing transparency, and holding abusive middlemen accountable. It expands health savings options, promotes direct primary care and telehealth, cracks down on fraud and abuse, and puts patients — not insurers or Washington bureaucrats — back at the center of the system.

Lowering health care costs will not happen overnight, but it starts with honest oversight, tough questions, and a willingness to challenge a broken system. Health insurers are one piece of the health care system, but they are by no means the only industry in need of oversight — and the Ways and Means Committee plans on continuing to pursue answers on behalf of American patients and families. With President Trump’s leadership and the continued work of Congress, we can build a health care system that delivers affordability, access to quality care, and peace of mind for families in every corner of the country — urban and rural alike.

MSSU expanding nursing program with help from Mercy Joplin

(From Missouri Southern State University)

In addition to admitting a fall nursing cohort, Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is increasing capacity by accepting a new group of nursing students for the spring semester. The expanded enrollment model, with 30 students admitted each fall and 20 students admitted each spring, will support four active cohorts and allow upwards of 100 students to progress through the program at any given time during their junior and senior years in the university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

The expansion is being supported through a generous commitment to the Missouri Southern Foundation from Mercy Hospital Joplin. The funds will help provide resources needed to support the increased enrollment and the university’s expanded statewide mission, which encompasses health and life sciences and immersive learning experiences.

“This is such an exciting and meaningful step forward for MSSU Nursing. This expansion reflects not only the growing demand for skilled nurses in our region but also the university’s commitment to meeting that need with excellence,” said Dr. Lisa Beals, MSSU associate professor of Nursing. 

“Mercy Hospital Joplin’s generous support will directly strengthen the learning environment for our students and help us continue building a strong, practice‑ready nursing workforce for the Four States community. With the upcoming launch of the MSN program and our continued 100% NCLEX pass rate, this expansion marks a powerful moment of momentum for MSSU Nursing, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

University officials said the addition of a second nursing cohort within an academic year marks a significant milestone in MSSU’s efforts to expand its health and life sciences programs and respond to the growing demand for highly qualified nursing professionals in the Four States region.

“We are very grateful for the commitment of Mercy Hospital Joplin to help the university expand its undergraduate nursing program,” said Dr. Dean Van Galen, MSSU president. “This support will enable Missouri Southern to prepare even more students for rewarding and impactful careers in the healthcare industry.”

“We’re truly excited to collaborate with MSSU as they expand their nursing program," said Jeremy Drinkwitz, president of Mercy Joplin and Southeast Kansas. “Saying yes to this opportunity was easy—it lifts the university, it empowers new nurses, it supports Mercy, and above all, it strengthens care for the community we proudly serve. We can’t wait to welcome more MSSU‑produced nurses into our halls."

Earlier this fall, MSSU announced approval of a new Master of Science in Nursing program, which is scheduled to begin accepting students in Fall 2026.

MSSU’s nursing program has demonstrated continued success, with graduates achieving a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for the past three consecutive years.

For more information about MSSU’s nursing program, visit https://www.mssu.edu/academics/education/nursing/index.php

Detention motion: Branson entertainers had 46 videos of underage girl

A search warrant executed June 13 at the home of Branson entertainers Garry and Janine Carson turned up 46 videos of an underaged girl, with several of the videos featuring nude or semi-nude dances by the child and Janine Carson, according to detention motions filed today in U. S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.

The detention motion for Garry Carson indicated he was naked while filming the two and considered the videos to be "fashion shows."

Janine Carson's detention motion indicated she initially denied the allegations, but later said they were doing "fashion shows."

The Carsons, who perform a magic show at two Branson venues and also perform in Las Vegas, are charged with sexual exploitation of children. An indictment was unsealed Thursday.

Initial appearances for the Carsons were held this morning in U. S. District Court in Springfield. Their arraignments and detention hearings will be held separately Thursday.

The allegations against the couple are detailed in the detention motion.

On June 13, 2025, members of the Southwest Missouri Cybercrimes Task Force executed a federal search warrant upon the residence of defendants, JANINE and GARRY CARSON, and seized multiple digital storage devices, including a cellular telephone and computer.

The devices were subsequently forensically examined yielding the discovery of approximately 46 video recordings depicting an identified minor (MV1). Several of the videos depict MV1 engaged in acts of striptease along with defendant JANINE CARSON. 

For example, one such video depicts MV1 entering room bottomless, attired in high heels, and a shirt. MV1 dances for the camera and exits the room.

JANINE CARSON then enters the room wearing a see-through robe and exposes her bare buttocks and vagina to the camera. Several other video recordings depict MV1, completely nude, tumbling down a cushion. These videos were recorded in slow motion.

Both defendants were interviewed on scene. GARRY CARSON ultimately acknowledged that he filmed MV1 and his wife while naked and characterized such productions as “fashion shows.”

This Court is obligated to consider “the nature and circumstances of the offense charged, including whether the offense… involves a minor victim… .” 

The evidence against the defendant is overwhelming.

Wherefore, based upon the foregoing, the United States submits that there is clear and convincing evidence that there are no conditions which the Court could place upon the defendant that would reasonably assure the defendant’s appearance in Court and the safety of the community.

The Government therefore requests that a detention hearing be held and that the defendant be detained pending trial of this matter.

From the detention motion for Janine Carson:

JANINE CARSON initially denied any knowledge of the above-described video recordings. JANINE CARSON, after being confronted with the contents of one such recording, asserted that she and MV1 were doing a fashion show.