Kyle Bridges named interim chief administrative officer at Freeman Neosho

(From Freeman Health System)

Freeman Health System has appointed Kyle Bridges as Interim Chief Administrative Officer of Freeman Neosho Hospital, bringing more than two decades of healthcare experience and a deep commitment to the Neosho community to the role.

Bridges has been a valued member of the Freeman Health System team for more than 20 years, beginning his career in laboratory services and advancing into leadership positions with increasing responsibility across both clinical and operational departments. Throughout his tenure, he has provided oversight for a broad range of services, including Emergency, Intensive Care, Acute Care, Infusion Services, Nursing, Clinic Operations, and Rescue Services.

“Kyle is an experienced and respected leader who understands both our organization and the community we serve,” said Renee Denton, Market President for Freeman Health System. “His leadership style reflects a genuine commitment to collaboration, quality patient care, and supporting our employees. We are confident in his ability to provide steady and thoughtful leadership for Freeman Neosho Hospital.”

Bridges has built a reputation for bringing teams together around shared goals, advancing operational performance, and supporting clinical excellence. His background in emergency medical services and fire leadership further demonstrates his ability to lead effectively in complex and fast-paced environments.

As a lifelong resident of the Neosho area, Bridges is deeply connected to the community and understands the unique healthcare needs of local patients and families. That connection continues to guide his commitment to ensuring high-quality, compassionate care remains accessible throughout the region.

“Freeman Neosho Hospital has a long history of serving this community, and I am honored to have the opportunity to support our employees, providers, and patients in this role,” said Bridges. “I look forward to working alongside our teams as we continue our mission of improving the health of the communities we serve.”

Freeman Health System leaders expressed confidence in Bridges' ability to provide stability, leadership, and support for the hospital's employees and medical staff while continuing to advance the organization's mission and strategic priorities.

Neosho man charged with domestic assault, armed criminal action

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office filed first degree domestic assault, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon charges against a Neosho man who allegedly took his girlfriend's loaded gun, held it to herhead and threatened to kill her, her dog and then himself Monday.

An arrest warrant was issued for Codie Drake Lasley (DOB 1999) with bond set at $25,000 cash only.

From the probable cause statement:

Upon my arrival to the area of E 20th St/S Texas Avenue, Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri 64804, I contacted V1. V1 stated that she and Lasley have been dating for approximately four months. 

Tonight, V1 stated she and Lasley were arguing because she wouldn't let Lasley inside her apartment due to her children being inside. Eventually, V1 stated they got into her car to talk things out, but they ended up arguing again and Lasley started driving around Joplin. 

V1 stated Lasley began threatening her and her children so she started secretly recording him because she was in fear of her life. V1 stated Lasley saw that she was recording and took her phone. 

V1 stated Lasley became so upset that he grabbed her loaded Glock 17 handgun out of the driver's side door, waved it around while he was driving, and then held it up to her head. V1 stated Lasley pushed the muzzle of her gun to her left temple, and Lasley told V1 he was going to shoot her, shoot the dog, and then shoot himself. 

V1 stated Lasley then stopped the vehicle, they both got out, and Lasley shot a single bullet into the air. V1 stated Lasley yelled at her to get back in the car and then he started driving again. Lasley drove them to E 20th St/S Texas Ave, parked the car, and Lasley got out of the car and started running away with V1's phone and gun. 

V1 stated she started screaming in the roadway and ran up to houses in the area before she found someone who was able to call 911 for her.

Lasley was located and taken into custody in the wooded area near the drainage ditch just west of E
20th St/S Texas Ave. Lasley was in possession of V1's cell phone and her car keys when he was taken
into custody. 

Lasley also assisted officers by telling them where he had put the Glock 17 handgun in the wooded area, which was recovered.

The case was investigated by the Joplin Police Department.