Former Carl Junction teacher awaiting trial on stalking, child porn charges, files for bankruptcy

Former Carl Junction R-1 music teacher Craig Smith, who is currently awaiting trial in Jasper County Circuit Court on stalking and possession of child pornography charges, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy Thursday.

Smith, who listed his income as $65,000 in 2024 while he was still employed by the R-1 School District, has made $1,570.28 this year, according to the petition and is averaging $261.71 a month.

The money comes from Smith's sports card business, Nerve Pinch, LLC, the petition said.

Smith lists $134,594 in liabilities, including $90,469 in credit card debt. Other debts were for purchases from Kay Jewelers $899, Home Depot $4,180, Fanatics $607, Lowe's $2,646, and Sam's $4,934.

Smith also says he owes money to Carl Junction Schools, but lists no amount and provides no further information and $17,106 to MOHELA for his student loan.

Smith lists $317,845.71 in assets with $280,000 of that in real estate and $37,845.71 in personal property.

He returned his 2020 Toyota Highlander to Frank Fletcher Toyota, according to the petition.

The petition notes that Smith is involved in three court cases, the two criminal cases and.a civil suit filed by his alleged stalking victim, with all three cases in Jasper County Circuit Court.

Smith notes that much of the property is co-owned by his wife, who is not filing for bankruptcy.

A creditors' meeting has been scheduled for 3 p.m. June 17 on Zoom.