| Pavement Sealing Work Planned |
| On Newton County Route E May 5-7 |
Newton County - A pavement sealing project is planned for Newton County Route E north of Granby during the week of May 5, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.
Drivers can expect traffic stops of up to 20 minutes where crews are working to apply rock and oil to the road. The process is designed to seal cracks and preserve the pavement.
During the chip-seal operation and even for a while afterwards, loose gravel may be on the road. So drivers are urged to slow down in the work zone to keep from throwing rocks into the air that could crack windshields.
The work zone speed limit will be set at 35 mph.
Driving Delays
* Traffic may be stopped for up to 20 minutes where the work zone begins. A rock spreader being used in the chip-seal operation covers the entire width of the road. Using equipment that covers the full width of the pavement enables the work to go quicker than doing one lane at a time.
* One-lane traffic also is possible, because equipment will be on the road. Drivers should obey flaggers on either end of the work zone and follow a pilot vehicle that will lead vehicles through the work area.
* Drivers on side roads and driveways approaching the highway will have to stop and wait to follow a pilot vehicle before pulling onto or crossing the highway.
A chip-seal is planned for these roads as an economical way to maintain and preserve the pavement. The treatment keeps a road from deteriorating and extends its life.
Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.
Project Information:
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Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Pavement sealing work planned on Newton County Route E
(From MODOT)
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
99-cent Randy Turner e-book sale ends at 10 a.m. today
The five include my novels No Child Left Alive, The Devil's on Facebook, and Small Town News and non-fiction books Let Teachers Teach and The Best of Sports Talk.
No Child Left Alive is the story of one year in a dysfunctional high school as teachers battle out-of-control students and clueless, self-absorbed administrators (Where do I come up with these ideas?). It is the book that C. J. Huff testified has nothing to say whatsoever about education and frequent Joplin Globe columnist Anson Burlingame says is pornography. After you read it, you will begin to wonder if C. J. Huff knows anything about education and if Anson Burlingame knows anything about pornography.
Small Town News was my first novel, originally published in 2005, and is a fictionalized version of the events of October 31, 2001, when the bank of Diamond was robbed and Diamond R-4 Superintendent Greg Smith on the same day. The book is a satire on what happens when a small town is besieged by the media as newspaper and television reporters battle to get the story.
The Best of Sports Talk is a collection of my best sports writing, mostly from the 1990s, including features on current Joplin City Councilwoman Miranda Lewis, about her aunt Nancy Cruzan of the Supreme Court right-to-die case, former Lamar Coach Armando DeLaRosa, who murdered his wife and then killed himself, current Carthage teacher Peggy Lucas as she watched her daughter Tysha, also a teacher now, play her final high school volleyball match, and the girl who received her first kiss at a basketball game, plus the way a swimmer who died of meningitis affected a class of first graders and much, much more.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Springfield Boys and GIrls Club receives $250,000 grant
(From the Missouri Department of Economic Development)
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) approved eight Missouri not-for-profit organizations for a total of $1,324,778 in tax credits under the Youth Opportunities Program (YOP).
The following organizations have been approved for tax credits under the YOP:
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield in Springfield has been approved for $250,000
• Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center in St. Louis has been approved for $250,000
• Children’s Home Society of MO in St. Louis has been approved for $150,000
• Epworth Children & Family Services, Inc., in St. Louis has been approved for $249,857
• Guardian Angel Settlement Association in St. Louis has been approved for $25,000
• St. Louis Art Works in St. Louis has been approved for $35,000
• St. Luke Community Christian Center in Lexington has been approved for $155,676
• UrbanFuture in St. Louis has been approved for $209,245
The YOP, administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, provides tax credits to organizations administering positive youth development or crime prevention projects. For more information on the YOP, please visit http://ded.mo.gov/BCS%20Programs/BCSProgramDetails.aspx?BCSProgramID=85.
The following organizations have been approved for tax credits under the YOP:
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield in Springfield has been approved for $250,000
• Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center in St. Louis has been approved for $250,000
• Children’s Home Society of MO in St. Louis has been approved for $150,000
• Epworth Children & Family Services, Inc., in St. Louis has been approved for $249,857
• Guardian Angel Settlement Association in St. Louis has been approved for $25,000
• St. Louis Art Works in St. Louis has been approved for $35,000
• St. Luke Community Christian Center in Lexington has been approved for $155,676
• UrbanFuture in St. Louis has been approved for $209,245
The YOP, administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, provides tax credits to organizations administering positive youth development or crime prevention projects. For more information on the YOP, please visit http://ded.mo.gov/BCS%20Programs/BCSProgramDetails.aspx?BCSProgramID=85.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Five Randy Turner e-books available for 99 cents beginning Sunday
The five include my novels No Child Left Alive, The Devil's on Facebook, and Small Town News and non-fiction books Let Teachers Teach and The Best of Sports Talk.
No Child Left Alive is the story of one year in a dysfunctional high school as teachers battle out-of-control students and clueless, self-absorbed administrators (Where do I come up with these ideas?). It is the book that C. J. Huff testified has nothing to say whatsoever about education and frequent Joplin Globe columnist Anson Burlingame says is pornography. After you read it, you will begin to wonder if C. J. Huff knows anything about education and if Anson Burlingame knows anything about pornography.
Small Town News was my first novel, originally published in 2005, and is a fictionalized version of the events of October 31, 2001, when the bank of Diamond was robbed and Diamond R-4 Superintendent Greg Smith on the same day. The book is a satire on what happens when a small town is besieged by the media as newspaper and television reporters battle to get the story.
The Best of Sports Talk is a collection of my best sports writing, mostly from the 1990s, including features on current Joplin City Councilwoman Miranda Lewis, about her aunt Nancy Cruzan of the Supreme Court right-to-die case, former Lamar Coach Armando DeLaRosa, who murdered his wife and then killed himself, current Carthage teacher Peggy Lucas as she watched her daughter Tysha, also a teacher now, play her final high school volleyball match, and the girl who received her first kiss at a basketball game, plus the way a swimmer who died of meningitis affected a class of first graders and much, much more.
Friday, April 25, 2014
3M announces $18.7 million project, 22 new jobs in Nevada
(From Gov. Jay Nixon)
Global manufacturer 3M is once again strengthening its ties to the Show-Me State with a $18.7 million expansion project and an additional 22 new jobs at its Nevada location, Gov. Nixon announced today. These latest jobs will bring 3M’s workforce in the state to 1,259 Missourians.
“Again and again, we’re seeing global companies like 3M invest in the Show-Me State and hire hard-working Missourians to help grow their business,” Gov. Nixon said. “Our superior workforce and pro-business climate continue to create opportunities and spur economic development in every corner of the state.”
Founded in 1902 in St. Paul, Minn., 3M produces thousands of innovative products for a variety of sectors including health care, highway safety, office products, and manufacturing. The company operates in more than 70 countries and has several facilities in Missouri.
“Our continued investment in the Nevada community will create new job opportunities as we increase the production capacity of this facility,” said Todd Cantrell, 3M plant manager. “3M technologies improve the lives of people all over the world, and we are excited to share our innovations with Nevada and the state of Missouri.”
3M’s Nevada facility specializes in manufacturing commercial graphics and signage for buildings and semi-trucks. Currently employing 639 workers, the Nevada facility is the largest 3M location in Missouri. The plant has experienced consistent growth since it opened in 1971.
“The people of Nevada are highly-skilled and hard-working, and we’re thrilled that 3M continues to recognize the value of our technically-skilled workforce by investing and expanding here,” said Nevada Mayor Seth Barrett. “3M has been a big part of our community, providing hundreds of good paying jobs for local workers, and I look forward to further developing our partnership with 3M as they grow here in Nevada.”
Since advanced manufacturing was identified by his Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth as a top target for next-generation job creation, Gov. Nixon has made attracting investments in this field a priority of his administration. Already in 2014, the state has attracted numerous investments from expanding manufacturing companies, including Janesville Acoustics in Warrensburg, Robinson Laser in Pomona, North American Tank in Ozark, Select Plastics in Scott City, GAF Roofing in Moberly, and LMV Automotive in Liberty.
To assist 3M with its expansion, the Department of Economic Development has offered a strategic economic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria. The City of Nevada also partnered with 3M to help make its expansion possible.
Global manufacturer 3M is once again strengthening its ties to the Show-Me State with a $18.7 million expansion project and an additional 22 new jobs at its Nevada location, Gov. Nixon announced today. These latest jobs will bring 3M’s workforce in the state to 1,259 Missourians.
“Again and again, we’re seeing global companies like 3M invest in the Show-Me State and hire hard-working Missourians to help grow their business,” Gov. Nixon said. “Our superior workforce and pro-business climate continue to create opportunities and spur economic development in every corner of the state.”
Founded in 1902 in St. Paul, Minn., 3M produces thousands of innovative products for a variety of sectors including health care, highway safety, office products, and manufacturing. The company operates in more than 70 countries and has several facilities in Missouri.
“Our continued investment in the Nevada community will create new job opportunities as we increase the production capacity of this facility,” said Todd Cantrell, 3M plant manager. “3M technologies improve the lives of people all over the world, and we are excited to share our innovations with Nevada and the state of Missouri.”
3M’s Nevada facility specializes in manufacturing commercial graphics and signage for buildings and semi-trucks. Currently employing 639 workers, the Nevada facility is the largest 3M location in Missouri. The plant has experienced consistent growth since it opened in 1971.
“The people of Nevada are highly-skilled and hard-working, and we’re thrilled that 3M continues to recognize the value of our technically-skilled workforce by investing and expanding here,” said Nevada Mayor Seth Barrett. “3M has been a big part of our community, providing hundreds of good paying jobs for local workers, and I look forward to further developing our partnership with 3M as they grow here in Nevada.”
Since advanced manufacturing was identified by his Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth as a top target for next-generation job creation, Gov. Nixon has made attracting investments in this field a priority of his administration. Already in 2014, the state has attracted numerous investments from expanding manufacturing companies, including Janesville Acoustics in Warrensburg, Robinson Laser in Pomona, North American Tank in Ozark, Select Plastics in Scott City, GAF Roofing in Moberly, and LMV Automotive in Liberty.
To assist 3M with its expansion, the Department of Economic Development has offered a strategic economic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria. The City of Nevada also partnered with 3M to help make its expansion possible.
Extension farm outreach worker hired for Jasper, Newton counties
(From University of Missouri Extension)
Randy Garrett was recently hired by Lincoln University to serve as a Farm Outreach Worker for Newton and Jasper counties. Here is a quick overview of Garrett’s responsibilities and contact information for the community.
Name/title: Randy Garrett
Headquartered in: Mount Vernon, Missouri
Coverage area: Newton and Jasper Counties.
Education Background: Bachelors in agriculture education and master’s in education administration.
Job Responsibilities: To provide information and assistance to both rural and urban farmers and ranchers, with an emphasis on undeserved and socially disadvantage populations.
How does your work impact residents of Jasper and Newton counties? “Our goal in ISFOP is to assist farmers in adopting sustainable farming practices, which include; lowering input costs to their enterprise, improve farming skills, increase yields, improve their record keeping systems, help them explore new farming practices if needed, help them find niche markets, and add value to their products, and help them write a farm or business plan and if needed, receive training and write grant proposals.
What are some goals you have for the coming year? To assist new and beginning famers who are working toward a sustainable small farm system in southwest Missouri. I would like to hold workshops that are of value to those in Newton and Jasper Counties and make them aware of other valuable workshops that are conducted by Lincoln Cooperative Extension or the University of Missouri,” said Garrett.
Is there a group you are targeting for your services? Lincoln University Cooperative Extension specifically target’s beginning farmers, traditionally underserved, and those individuals that are considered socially disadvantaged as defined by the USDA.
Where are residents of southwest Missouri most likely to see you? “In my free time I like to be on my beef farm and spending time with my family,” said Garrett.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
East Newton student semifinalist in U. S. Presidential Scholars Program
(From the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education)
Eight Missouri students are being honored as semifinalists in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program for their outstanding academic achievement. The semifinalists are:
• George N. Bennion, Stark City; East Newton R-6 High School, Granby
• Jonathan D. Chu, Kansas City; The Pembroke Hill School, Kansas City
• Najeebah S. Hussain, Columbia; Rock Bridge High School, Columbia
• Emerson E. Lee, Parkville; Park Hill South High School, Riverside
• Eric H. Lee, Weldon Spring; Francis Howell High School, St. Charles
• Elaine C. Reichert, Creve Coeur; Parkway Central High School, Chesterfield
• Erica L. Swanson, Saint Peters; Francis Howell Central, St. Charles
• Rujie Yao, Columbia; Rock Bridge High School, Columbia
“The Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors for high school students,” said Commissioner of Education Chris Nicastro. “I commend these outstanding seniors for their commitment to education. We can all be very proud of them.”
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established by Executive Order of the President in 1964 to honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.
Of the nearly 3.2 million graduating seniors in 2014, more than 4,000 were identified as candidates in the program, and 565 semifinalists were chosen from across the country. The semifinalists form the pool from which the 2014 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be selected. The Scholars are chosen based on their accomplishments in many areas: academic and artistic success, leadership, and involvement in school and the community.
Eight Missouri students are being honored as semifinalists in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program for their outstanding academic achievement. The semifinalists are:
• George N. Bennion, Stark City; East Newton R-6 High School, Granby
• Jonathan D. Chu, Kansas City; The Pembroke Hill School, Kansas City
• Najeebah S. Hussain, Columbia; Rock Bridge High School, Columbia
• Emerson E. Lee, Parkville; Park Hill South High School, Riverside
• Eric H. Lee, Weldon Spring; Francis Howell High School, St. Charles
• Elaine C. Reichert, Creve Coeur; Parkway Central High School, Chesterfield
• Erica L. Swanson, Saint Peters; Francis Howell Central, St. Charles
• Rujie Yao, Columbia; Rock Bridge High School, Columbia
“The Presidential Scholars Program is one of the highest honors for high school students,” said Commissioner of Education Chris Nicastro. “I commend these outstanding seniors for their commitment to education. We can all be very proud of them.”
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established by Executive Order of the President in 1964 to honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional scholarship and talent in the visual, creative and performing arts.
Of the nearly 3.2 million graduating seniors in 2014, more than 4,000 were identified as candidates in the program, and 565 semifinalists were chosen from across the country. The semifinalists form the pool from which the 2014 U.S. Presidential Scholars will be selected. The Scholars are chosen based on their accomplishments in many areas: academic and artistic success, leadership, and involvement in school and the community.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Newton County Extension seeking donations to pay for relocation
A report from KOAM's Cailey Dougherty
KOAM TV 7
Prosecutors seek death penalty for woman accused of killing husband, son with antifreeze
A report from KOLR News
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Monday, April 21, 2014
Spring brings bison babies at Prairie State Park
(From the Missouri Department of Natural Resources)
A sure sign of spring on the prairie is a baby bison sighting, and right now it’s calving season at Prairie State Park in Mindenmines. The park holds guided bison hikes on the first Saturday of each month, and the hike scheduled for Saturday, May 3 is a great opportunity for visitors to catch sight of a baby bison at one of the largest remaining tallgrass prairies in Missouri. Hike participants should meet at the park’s Nature Center at 10 a.m.
Late April through May is when the majority of bison calves are born. In 2013, there were an estimated 40 calves born at the park, a record number for the herd. The calves are orange or red in color for the first three months, and many visitors affectionately call them “pumpkins”. Bison calves are up and running within three short hours after they are born. Their mothers are very protective and they often keep the herd away from human activity.
In addition to viewing the bison, the park’s nature center offers many interpretive displays about the prairie, and several trails of varying length offer the chance to explore on your own. While hiking to view the bison, keep at least 100 yards between you and the bison. For your safety, pets are not allowed on the trails at Prairie State Park.
Prairie State Park is located 35 miles north of Joplin at 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, MO. For information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Verona man charged with DWI after one-car accident near Aurora
A Verona man was charged with driving while intoxicated following a one-car accident 12:40 a.m. today four miles north of Aurora on Route K.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Mark A. McManus, 51, ran off the roadway, struck a driveway and overturned.
McManus was taken to Cox South Hospital in Springfield with moderate injuries.
In addition to the DWI charge, McManus was cited for careless and imprudent driving and for not having any insurance.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Mark A. McManus, 51, ran off the roadway, struck a driveway and overturned.
McManus was taken to Cox South Hospital in Springfield with moderate injuries.
In addition to the DWI charge, McManus was cited for careless and imprudent driving and for not having any insurance.
Purdy man killed in one-car accident near Galena
A Purdy man was killed in a one-car accident 2:50 p.m. Friday, on MO 248, three miles west of Galenda.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Clarence L. Frye, 58, driving a 1993 GMC Sonoma, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.
Frye was pronounced dead at the scene by Stone County Coroner John Cunningham.
The fatality was the 20th for Troop D in 2014.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Clarence L. Frye, 58, driving a 1993 GMC Sonoma, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.
Frye was pronounced dead at the scene by Stone County Coroner John Cunningham.
The fatality was the 20th for Troop D in 2014.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Route N closed near Golden City Monday for railroad crossing repairs
(From MODOT)
Dade County Route N CLOSED Near Golden City
For Railroad Crossing Repairs Monday, April 21
Where: Dade County Route N CLOSED at railroad crossing south of Route 160 near Golden City
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, April 21
What: Road CLOSED to allow railroad crews to repair railroad crossing
Traffic Impacts: Drivers will have to find an alternate route around the closing. Drivers will be able to get to driveways and other entrances on either side of the closing. However, they will NOT be able to travel through the work zone.
Weather and/or construction delays could postpone the project.
Dade County Route N CLOSED Near Golden City
For Railroad Crossing Repairs Monday, April 21
Where: Dade County Route N CLOSED at railroad crossing south of Route 160 near Golden City
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, April 21
What: Road CLOSED to allow railroad crews to repair railroad crossing
Traffic Impacts: Drivers will have to find an alternate route around the closing. Drivers will be able to get to driveways and other entrances on either side of the closing. However, they will NOT be able to travel through the work zone.
Weather and/or construction delays could postpone the project.
Springfield man charged with DWI after four injured in accident
A Springfield man was charged with driving while intoxicated following an accident 10:05 p.m. Thursday, four miles south of Everton in which four people were injured.
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol report, Tyler D. Saltzman, 23, Springfield, was westbound in a 2002 Chevy Malibu when he lost control of the car, struck an embankment and the vehicle overturned.
Saltzman, who was arrested for DWI, was taken to Cox South with serious injuries.
Three passengers in the car were also injured. David J. Cain, 21, West Plains, suffered moderate injuries, and Shaelynne Wilson, 22, West Plains, suffered serious injuries. Both were taken to Cox South.
Amber Martin, 22, Springfield, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital.
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol report, Tyler D. Saltzman, 23, Springfield, was westbound in a 2002 Chevy Malibu when he lost control of the car, struck an embankment and the vehicle overturned.
Saltzman, who was arrested for DWI, was taken to Cox South with serious injuries.
Three passengers in the car were also injured. David J. Cain, 21, West Plains, suffered moderate injuries, and Shaelynne Wilson, 22, West Plains, suffered serious injuries. Both were taken to Cox South.
Amber Martin, 22, Springfield, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Nixon discusses Good Schools, Good Jobs plan during visit to Ozark
(From Gov. Jay Nixon)
Investing in education is vital to growing the economy, Gov. Jay Nixon said today during a visit to Ozark High School in Christian County. Gov. Nixon discussed his “Good Schools, Good Jobs” plan which will fully fund the state’s K-12 foundation formula by Fiscal Year 2016, and provide the resources to help the Ozark School District strengthen its vocational education courses and upgrade technology throughout its buildings.
“Making sure every community has good jobs, starts with making sure every student can go to a good school,” Gov. Nixonsaid. “With a significant funding increase for our K-12 classrooms, my ‘Good Schools, Good Jobs’ plan will ensure that students here in Ozark will have more hands-on learning opportunities and more teachers will the resources they need to provide every student a great education.”
Gov. Nixon’s Fiscal Year 2015 budget proposal includes an increase of $278 million for K-12 classrooms, putting the state on a path to fully funding the foundation formula in two years. The K-12 foundation formula, passed into law in 2005, establishes the state’s funding level for K-12 schools.
“Even though Missouri already has the sixth-lowest taxes in the nation, and a better tax climate than any of its neighboring states, some folks want to cut taxes to the point where it would be impossible to provide schools like the ones here in Ozark with the resources they need,” Gov. Nixon said. “Just yesterday, the General Assembly passed a bill that that would take $620 million annually out of our budget – the same amount of funding that’s needed to fully fund our formula and keep college affordable. This legislation would send Missouri schools headed in the wrong direction, and drag our economy down with them.”
Gov. Nixon’s Fiscal Year 2015 “Good Schools, Good Jobs” budget proposal would also increase funding for Ozark Schools by $2,081,547. The district would use the increased funding to enhance vocational programs to help students learn more about careers and industries of interests.
These additional resources will also help the district to recruit and retain quality educators by strengthening salaries and offering more professional development opportunities to staff. The Ozark School District will also be able to update its wireless infrastructure at its buildings and expand its One-to-One technology program to more students.
“Here in Ozark Schools, we believe every student should be prepared for success in the path they choose to pursue,” saidDr. Kevin Patterson, Ozark Schools Superintendent. “Gov. Nixon’s proposal to fully fund schools will help Ozark Schools continue to prepare students for college and careers by strengthening our vocational courses and ensuring that our teachers have the resources they need to provide every student with a great education.”
According to a new report from the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University, Missouri was one of only five states to receive an ‘A’ grade for its tax climate and economic diversity. No states bordering Missouri received an ‘A’ grade for tax climate. Oklahoma received a ‘B’; Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska and Tennessee each received a ‘C’; Iowa received a ‘D’; and Illinois received an ‘F’.
Gov. Nixon has made public education in Missouri a top priority of his administration. Math and reading scores have increased on his watch and Missouri’s high school graduation rate is now the eighth highest in the nation. Over the past five years, Missouri has also led the nation in minimizing tuition increases at its public universities.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Neosho Ethics Committee hears complaints against two council members
A report from KSN's Felicia Lawrence
Ozark man sentenced to 15 years for meth conspiracy
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that three south Missouri residents were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Noe Moreno-Malagon, 36, a citizen of Mexico residing in Ozark, Mo., Rita J. Vera, 35, of Monett, Mo., and Paul E. Allen, 58, of Purdy, Mo., were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. Chief District Judge Greg Kays. Moreno-Malagon was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison without parole, which must be served consecutively to his prison sentence in an unrelated state case. Moreno-Malagon must also forfeit to the government $32,000 and four firearms (with miscellaneous ammunition) that were seized by law enforcement officers.
Vera was sentenced to five years in federal prison without parole. Allen was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 15, 2013, Moreno-Malagon pleaded guilty to leading a multi-pound methamphetamine conspiracy operating in the Springfield area but also covering Polk, Christian and Taney Counties. The case began when couriers were intercepted in New Mexico and Texas with 4-kilogram loads of methamphetamine. The couriers indicated that the methamphetamine was going to Springfield. The federal investigation included controlled buys and additional seizures of methamphetamine, firearms and cash.
On Dec. 3, 2012, a search warrant was executed in Morrisville, Mo. During the search, DEA agents located 338.1 grams of pure methamphetamine, as well as a handgun and a rifle. The DEA also conducted a search at a Springfield residence believed to be a stash house for the organization. At that location, agents found 123.6 grams of pure methamphetamine.
Moreno-Malagon supplied Vera and Allen with methamphetamine. On Feb. 13, 2012, federal law enforcement agents seized 362 grams of pure methamphetamine from Allen in Ozark, Mo. Additionally, on June 22, 2012, 224.4 grams of pure methamphetamine was seized from another co-defendant. In addition to the seizures, two controlled buys were made on March 27, 2012 and April 12, 2012. In March, 125.1 grams of pure methamphetamine was purchased, and in April, 117.5 grams of pure methamphetamine was purchased.
On Sept. 3, 2013, Allen pleaded guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. Vera pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy on June 20, 2013.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Milligan. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and task force officers from the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Ozark, Mo., Police Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the South Central Drug Task Force and COMET (the Combined Ozarks Multijurisdictional Enforcement Team).
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that three south Missouri residents were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Noe Moreno-Malagon, 36, a citizen of Mexico residing in Ozark, Mo., Rita J. Vera, 35, of Monett, Mo., and Paul E. Allen, 58, of Purdy, Mo., were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. Chief District Judge Greg Kays. Moreno-Malagon was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison without parole, which must be served consecutively to his prison sentence in an unrelated state case. Moreno-Malagon must also forfeit to the government $32,000 and four firearms (with miscellaneous ammunition) that were seized by law enforcement officers.
Vera was sentenced to five years in federal prison without parole. Allen was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 15, 2013, Moreno-Malagon pleaded guilty to leading a multi-pound methamphetamine conspiracy operating in the Springfield area but also covering Polk, Christian and Taney Counties. The case began when couriers were intercepted in New Mexico and Texas with 4-kilogram loads of methamphetamine. The couriers indicated that the methamphetamine was going to Springfield. The federal investigation included controlled buys and additional seizures of methamphetamine, firearms and cash.
On Dec. 3, 2012, a search warrant was executed in Morrisville, Mo. During the search, DEA agents located 338.1 grams of pure methamphetamine, as well as a handgun and a rifle. The DEA also conducted a search at a Springfield residence believed to be a stash house for the organization. At that location, agents found 123.6 grams of pure methamphetamine.
Moreno-Malagon supplied Vera and Allen with methamphetamine. On Feb. 13, 2012, federal law enforcement agents seized 362 grams of pure methamphetamine from Allen in Ozark, Mo. Additionally, on June 22, 2012, 224.4 grams of pure methamphetamine was seized from another co-defendant. In addition to the seizures, two controlled buys were made on March 27, 2012 and April 12, 2012. In March, 125.1 grams of pure methamphetamine was purchased, and in April, 117.5 grams of pure methamphetamine was purchased.
On Sept. 3, 2013, Allen pleaded guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. Vera pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy on June 20, 2013.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Milligan. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and task force officers from the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Ozark, Mo., Police Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the South Central Drug Task Force and COMET (the Combined Ozarks Multijurisdictional Enforcement Team).
Mansfield man sentenced on child pornography charge
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Mansfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
Mathew Taylor Cox, 49, of Mansfield, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Greg Kays to eight years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Cox to forfeit to the government a desktop computer, two computer hard drives and 938 CDs and DVDs that contain images and videos of child pornography.
On Sept. 4, 2013, Cox pleaded guilty to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography (between May 1, 2008, and March 31, 2011) and one count of possessing child pornography (on Dec. 20, 2011).
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the FBI, the Nixa, Mo., Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Mansfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
Mathew Taylor Cox, 49, of Mansfield, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Greg Kays to eight years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Cox to forfeit to the government a desktop computer, two computer hard drives and 938 CDs and DVDs that contain images and videos of child pornography.
On Sept. 4, 2013, Cox pleaded guilty to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography (between May 1, 2008, and March 31, 2011) and one count of possessing child pornography (on Dec. 20, 2011).
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the FBI, the Nixa, Mo., Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Monday, April 14, 2014
West Plains man pleads guilty to receiving, distributing child pornography
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a West Plains, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
James A. Harrison, 53, of West Plains, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to the charge contained in a Feb. 26, 2014, federal indictment.
By pleading guilty today, Harrison admitted that he downloaded child pornography from Web sites, and that he received and distributed child pornography through peer-to-peer file-sharing networks.
A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper was conducting an undercover operation on Jan. 28, 2013, when he identified Harrison’s computer as sharing images of child pornography over the Internet through a peer-to-peer file-sharing network. The next day, the trooper downloaded a video of child pornography from Harrison’s computer. On Feb. 26, 2013, Harrison’s computer was still connected to the file-sharing network and had 10 files available for sharing that were known child pornography files. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Harrison’s residence and seized a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a hard drive and various digital media storage devices.
Investigators examined Harrison’s computers and digital media storage devices and found 474 child pornography videos and 560 images of child pornography (that ranged in age from three years old to 13-14 years old).
Under federal statutes, Harrison is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $250,000. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, the Cassville, Mo., Police Department and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crime Task Force.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a West Plains, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
James A. Harrison, 53, of West Plains, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to the charge contained in a Feb. 26, 2014, federal indictment.
By pleading guilty today, Harrison admitted that he downloaded child pornography from Web sites, and that he received and distributed child pornography through peer-to-peer file-sharing networks.
A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper was conducting an undercover operation on Jan. 28, 2013, when he identified Harrison’s computer as sharing images of child pornography over the Internet through a peer-to-peer file-sharing network. The next day, the trooper downloaded a video of child pornography from Harrison’s computer. On Feb. 26, 2013, Harrison’s computer was still connected to the file-sharing network and had 10 files available for sharing that were known child pornography files. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Harrison’s residence and seized a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a hard drive and various digital media storage devices.
Investigators examined Harrison’s computers and digital media storage devices and found 474 child pornography videos and 560 images of child pornography (that ranged in age from three years old to 13-14 years old).
Under federal statutes, Harrison is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $250,000. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull, II. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Joplin, Mo., Police Department, the Cassville, Mo., Police Department and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crime Task Force.
Construction of new First Street bridge in Lamar to begin next week
(From MODOT)
First Street/I-49 Overpass Project
In Lamar Begins Week of April 21
Lamar - Work to build a new First Street bridge over I-49 in Lamar is scheduled to begin the week of April 21, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.
Drivers can expect lane closings at times on I-49 as crews build a bridge to carry First Street traffic over the interstate.
Contractor crews will work primarily during the day but may have to work at night at times.
During the project the east outer road will be closed for a time at First Street. An exact date will be announced later.
The project is a partnership between MoDOT, Barton County, the cities of Lamar and Lamar Heights and the Barton County Ambulance District.
Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.
Project Information:
Prime Contractor: APAC-Missouri, Columbia
Construction cost: $2.3 million
Completion date: November 14, 2014
For more information, call MoDOT at 417-895-7600 or visit modot.org/southwest.
First Street/I-49 Overpass Project
In Lamar Begins Week of April 21
Lamar - Work to build a new First Street bridge over I-49 in Lamar is scheduled to begin the week of April 21, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.
Drivers can expect lane closings at times on I-49 as crews build a bridge to carry First Street traffic over the interstate.
Contractor crews will work primarily during the day but may have to work at night at times.
During the project the east outer road will be closed for a time at First Street. An exact date will be announced later.
The project is a partnership between MoDOT, Barton County, the cities of Lamar and Lamar Heights and the Barton County Ambulance District.
Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.
Project Information:
Prime Contractor: APAC-Missouri, Columbia
Construction cost: $2.3 million
Completion date: November 14, 2014
For more information, call MoDOT at 417-895-7600 or visit modot.org/southwest.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Judge grants probation on sexual assault charge to registered sex offender
A Hickory County judge granted probation to a man who pleaded guilty of sexual assault...and was already serving probation for child molestation.
Goodman man killed in one-vehicle accident near Anderson
A Goodman was killed in a one-vehicle accident 9 p.m. Tuesday on Indian Creek Road, one mile east of Anderson.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Terry Engle, 31, was driving a 1997 Jeep Wrangler when the vehicle ran off the right edge of the road and overturned. Engle was killed. A passenger, Marvin Whittington, 38, Neosho, suffered minor injuries.
The fatality was the 18th this year for Troop D.
According to the Highway Patrol report, Terry Engle, 31, was driving a 1997 Jeep Wrangler when the vehicle ran off the right edge of the road and overturned. Engle was killed. A passenger, Marvin Whittington, 38, Neosho, suffered minor injuries.
The fatality was the 18th this year for Troop D.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Dade County Route NN to be closed Monday
(From MODOT)
| Dade County Route NN |
| CLOSED Monday, April 7 |
Where: Dade County Route NN CLOSED between Route N and Lawrence County Route AA south of Lockwood.
When: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, April 7
What: MoDOT crews replacing a drain pipe underneath the road.
Traffic Impacts: Drivers will have to find an alternate route around the closing. Drivers will be able to get to driveways and other entrances on either side of the closing. However, they will NOT be able to travel through the work zone.
Weather and/or work scheduling conflicts could postpone the project.
|
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Tornado warning issued for Camden, Dallas, Hickory counties
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SPRINGFIELD HAS ISSUED A
* TORNADO WARNING FOR...
WESTERN CAMDEN COUNTY IN CENTRAL MISSOURI...
NORTHWESTERN DALLAS COUNTY IN SOUTHWEST MISSOURI...
EASTERN HICKORY COUNTY IN CENTRAL MISSOURI...
* UNTIL 215 PM CDT
* AT 142 PM CDT...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM CAPABLE OF PRODUCING A
TORNADO WAS LOCATED NEAR URBANA...AND MOVING NORTHEAST AT 35 MPH.
HAZARD...TORNADO AND QUARTER SIZE HAIL.
SOURCE...RADAR INDICATED ROTATION.
IMPACT...FLYING DEBRIS WILL BE DANGEROUS TO THOSE CAUGHT WITHOUT
SHELTER. MOBILE HOMES WILL BE DAMAGED OR DESTROYED. DAMAGE
TO ROOFS...WINDOWS AND VEHICLES WILL OCCUR. TREE DAMAGE IS
LIKELY.
* THIS DANGEROUS STORM WILL BE NEAR...
TUNAS AROUND 200 PM CDT.
BRANCH AROUND 205 PM CDT.
MACKS CREEK AND CLIMAX SPRINGS AROUND 210 PM CDT.
ROACH AND BARNUMTON AROUND 215 PM CDT.
THIS WARNING ALSO INCLUDES HA HA TONKA STATE PARK...LAKE OF THE
OZARKS...POMME DE TERRE LAKE AND POMME DE TERRE STATE PARK.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
TAKE COVER NOW. MOVE TO AN INTERIOR ROOM ON THE LOWEST FLOOR OF A
STURDY BUILDING. AVOID WINDOWS. IF IN A MOBILE HOME...A VEHICLE OR
OUTDOORS...MOVE TO THE CLOSEST SUBSTANTIAL SHELTER AND PROTECT
YOURSELF FROM FLYING DEBRIS.
TO REPORT SEVERE WEATHER CONTACT YOUR NEAREST LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.
THEY WILL SEND YOUR REPORT TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN
SPRINGFIELD.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Entertainment lineup announced for Missouri State Fair
(From the Missouri Department of Agriculture)
The Missouri State Fair will once again host outstanding entertainment in the Pepsi Grandstand, Director of Agriculture Richard Fordyce announced today in conjunction with Fair Director Mark Wolfe. For the 112th Fair, the Pepsi Grandstand will feature eight music shows and three motorsports events. The concerts include performances by Jake Owen, Sara Evans, Joan Jett and MercyMe.
"The Missouri State Fair is known for providing excellent entertainment, in addition to the top notch agricultural and youth exhibits," Fordyce said. "Fairgoers will once again have the opportunity to make outstanding live music, from country to classic rock to contemporary Christian acts, part of their time at the Missouri State Fair."
Tickets to the Missouri State Fair Pepsi Grandstand concerts and events will go on sale through Ticketmaster starting at 9 a.m. Monday, June 16. The fairgrounds' box office will open at noon Wednesday, June 18.
The Fair's 2014 lineup includes Scotty McCreery and Kelsey K Aug. 7; Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Black Stone Cherry Aug. 8; and Sara Evans and Joe Nichols Aug. 9. The Missouri Association Championship Truck and Tractor Pull will be the featured event in the venue Aug. 10 and 11.
Concerts will continue with Beatlemania Live Aug. 12; and Colt Ford opening for Florida Georgia Line Aug. 13. Aug. 14 will be An Evening with MercyMe, followed by Jake Owen's Days of Gold Tour starring Jake Owen and the Eli Young Band with special guest The Cadillac Three on Aug. 15. Halestorm will close out the Fair's concert series Aug. 16.
The final night of the Fair, Aug. 17, the Pepsi Grandstand will host the Missouri State Fair Protect the Harvest Summer Nationals Lucas Oil Pro Pulling League.
Prices for the concerts and events are available at www.mostatefair.com, along with ordering information for Ticketmaster and the Fair's box office. The 112th Missouri State Fair, themed "Harvest the Fun!," will be held Aug. 7-17 in Sedalia. Visit the Fair's website for more information or call 1-800-422-FAIR (3247). For more information on the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit agriculture.mo.gov.
The Missouri State Fair will once again host outstanding entertainment in the Pepsi Grandstand, Director of Agriculture Richard Fordyce announced today in conjunction with Fair Director Mark Wolfe. For the 112th Fair, the Pepsi Grandstand will feature eight music shows and three motorsports events. The concerts include performances by Jake Owen, Sara Evans, Joan Jett and MercyMe.
"The Missouri State Fair is known for providing excellent entertainment, in addition to the top notch agricultural and youth exhibits," Fordyce said. "Fairgoers will once again have the opportunity to make outstanding live music, from country to classic rock to contemporary Christian acts, part of their time at the Missouri State Fair."
Tickets to the Missouri State Fair Pepsi Grandstand concerts and events will go on sale through Ticketmaster starting at 9 a.m. Monday, June 16. The fairgrounds' box office will open at noon Wednesday, June 18.
The Fair's 2014 lineup includes Scotty McCreery and Kelsey K Aug. 7; Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Black Stone Cherry Aug. 8; and Sara Evans and Joe Nichols Aug. 9. The Missouri Association Championship Truck and Tractor Pull will be the featured event in the venue Aug. 10 and 11.
Concerts will continue with Beatlemania Live Aug. 12; and Colt Ford opening for Florida Georgia Line Aug. 13. Aug. 14 will be An Evening with MercyMe, followed by Jake Owen's Days of Gold Tour starring Jake Owen and the Eli Young Band with special guest The Cadillac Three on Aug. 15. Halestorm will close out the Fair's concert series Aug. 16.
The final night of the Fair, Aug. 17, the Pepsi Grandstand will host the Missouri State Fair Protect the Harvest Summer Nationals Lucas Oil Pro Pulling League.
Prices for the concerts and events are available at www.mostatefair.com, along with ordering information for Ticketmaster and the Fair's box office. The 112th Missouri State Fair, themed "Harvest the Fun!," will be held Aug. 7-17 in Sedalia. Visit the Fair's website for more information or call 1-800-422-FAIR (3247). For more information on the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit agriculture.mo.gov.
Nixon calls for Medicaid reform and expansion during West Plains stop
(From Gov. Jay Nixon)
As the tab for the General Assembly’s inaction on Medicaid exceeded $500 million, Gov. Jay Nixonvisited Ozarks Medical Center in West Plains to call on legislators to prevent further damage to the economy and stop flow of taxpayer dollars to other states. Last week, a report from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Missouri Hospital Association found that inaction on Medicaid already cost the state more than 3,000 jobs over the past six months alone. The Governor was joined by representatives of the West Plains Chamber of Commerce, which has endorsed Medicaid reform and expansion.
“Since January 1st, Missouri taxpayers have spent more than $500 million and counting to provide health care in other states – and where our tax dollars have gone, jobs have followed,” Gov. Nixon said. “The Missouri Chamber’s report shows that Missouri families and communities are already paying the costs of the legislature’s inaction, and it needs to stop. By denying Missourians any of the benefits but sticking them with the entire bill, the General Assembly is delivering Missouri families a one-two punch. With more than a month left in the legislative session, I urge the General Assembly to take action necessary to prevent further damage to our economy and bring Missourians’ tax dollars home.”
Medicaid reform and expansion would bring federal dollars that Missourians send to Washington, $2 billion a year, back to the state to provide health care coverage to 300,000 working Missourians making no more than $32,913 a year for a family of four. As a result of the legislature’s failure to act, those dollars -- $5.47 million a day – are now being spent in other states. A majority of states, including Missouri’s neighboring states of Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois and Iowa, are moving forward with plans to expand and reform Medicaid.
Under the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid expansion was also designed to compensate for payment cuts to hospitals and health care providers. Even though Missouri did not expand Medicaid, many of those payment cuts are still taking effect, forcing many hospitals, including Ozarks Medical Center, to reduce staff and services. According to the survey by the Missouri Chamber and MHA, “more than one-third of layoffs and one half of hiring freezes have been in rural areas where the need for health care workers is great and hospital jobs help support the economy.”
“Our mission at OMC is to provide high quality, compassionate health care and promote wellness in the communities we serve, but Missouri’s failure to act on Medicaid is making that mission more difficult to carry out,” said Ozarks Medical Center CEO Tom Keller. “Unless the legislature takes action and expands Medicaid, we’re going to continue to see fewer jobs at hospitals and rural clinics across Missouri. Governor Nixon is right, we can’t change what they’ve done in Washington, but we can come up with solutions in Missouri to protect our state and our economy.”
“Here in West Plains, like many small towns, the local hospital is essential to the physical and economic health of the community,” Josh Cotter, Immediate Past Chair of the West Plains Chamber of Commerce. “We are very concerned that continued inaction by the General Assembly on Medicaid will lead to more job losses in communities like ours. That is why we are proud to join the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and local Chambers across the state in urging our representatives and senators to protect rural communities and expand and reform Medicaid this year.”
According to an analysis by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), expanding and reforming Medicaid would result in the creation of 23,868 jobs, $9.9 billion in new wages, and $14.6 billion in new Gross State Product (GSP) from 2015 to 2022. According to the report, Medicaid expansion would also generate $402 million in new state general revenue from 2015 to 2022, including $53 million in new general revenue in 2015 alone.
Branson man indicted for Clean Water Act violations
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Branson, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for making false statements.
Earl Patrick Kearney, 60, of Branson, was charged in a 12-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo.
Kearney was employed by the Overlook subdivision and the Morningside development in Stone County, Mo., to operate their wastewater treatment facilities from May 2010 to August 2011. Kearney was responsible for conducting wastewater sampling at the facilities and submitting those results to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Today’s indictment alleges that Kearney altered the reports he submitted to the state so that it appeared the Overlook subdivision and the Morningside development were in compliance with their wastewater discharge permits.
Kearney submitted quarterly Wastewater Discharge Monitoring Reports that reported sampling results for total phosphorous, one of the pollutants that is required to be reported for both facilities. All of the reports represented that the Overlook subdivision and Morningside development wastewater treatment facilities were in compliance with their permits. However, the actual laboratory testing data that Kearney received, following his submission of samples for testing, placed both wastewater treatment facilities in violation of their permits during every quarter for which samples were analyzed. After Kearney received the laboratory testing data, he allegedly caused the numbers to be altered on the reports that were subsequently submitted to the state.
The Overlook subdivision wastewater treatment facility discharged to Table Rock Lake. The Morningside development wastewater treatment facility discharged to an unnamed tributary to Brush Creek, a tributary of Table Rock Lake.
Kearney is charged with five counts of making false statements in regard to the Overlook subdivision reports and seven counts of making false statements in regard to the Morningside development reports.
Dickinson cautioned that the charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Branson, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for making false statements.
Earl Patrick Kearney, 60, of Branson, was charged in a 12-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo.
Kearney was employed by the Overlook subdivision and the Morningside development in Stone County, Mo., to operate their wastewater treatment facilities from May 2010 to August 2011. Kearney was responsible for conducting wastewater sampling at the facilities and submitting those results to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Today’s indictment alleges that Kearney altered the reports he submitted to the state so that it appeared the Overlook subdivision and the Morningside development were in compliance with their wastewater discharge permits.
Kearney submitted quarterly Wastewater Discharge Monitoring Reports that reported sampling results for total phosphorous, one of the pollutants that is required to be reported for both facilities. All of the reports represented that the Overlook subdivision and Morningside development wastewater treatment facilities were in compliance with their permits. However, the actual laboratory testing data that Kearney received, following his submission of samples for testing, placed both wastewater treatment facilities in violation of their permits during every quarter for which samples were analyzed. After Kearney received the laboratory testing data, he allegedly caused the numbers to be altered on the reports that were subsequently submitted to the state.
The Overlook subdivision wastewater treatment facility discharged to Table Rock Lake. The Morningside development wastewater treatment facility discharged to an unnamed tributary to Brush Creek, a tributary of Table Rock Lake.
Kearney is charged with five counts of making false statements in regard to the Overlook subdivision reports and seven counts of making false statements in regard to the Morningside development reports.
Dickinson cautioned that the charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Billings bank president sentenced for fraud, money laundering
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that the former president of the Bank of Billings in Billings, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for a $413,000 bank fraud and money laundering scheme.
Matthew D. Spillman, 35, of Nixa, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 30 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Spillman to pay $179,952 in restitution to the Bank of Billings and $233,952 in restitution to BancInsure.
Spillman was the president of Bank of Billings until he was terminated for misappropriating bank funds. Spillman engaged in a scheme to defraud and embezzle from the Bank of Billings from May 20, 2011, until he was suspended from his position on April 13, 2012.
On Oct. 11, 2013, Spillman pleaded guilty to bank fraud and money laundering. As a part of the fraud scheme, Spillman caused the bank to grant loans in nominee names, and kept the loan proceeds for himself. Spillman also added debt to loans without the borrowers’ knowledge, and converted the additional funds to his own use. He advanced funds on bank customers’ lines of credit, and converted those funds to his own use. Spillman used a bank credit card for personal expenses. He embezzled and converted to his own use loan payments made by bank customers. Spillman also caused the bank to issue cashier’s checks without depositing funds to cover those checks.
By pleading guilty, Spillman acknowledged that the total financial harm he caused the Bank of Billings as a result of his scheme to defraud was $413,905.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by the FBI, the FDIC-Office of Inspector General and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Matthew D. Spillman, 35, of Nixa, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 30 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Spillman to pay $179,952 in restitution to the Bank of Billings and $233,952 in restitution to BancInsure.
Spillman was the president of Bank of Billings until he was terminated for misappropriating bank funds. Spillman engaged in a scheme to defraud and embezzle from the Bank of Billings from May 20, 2011, until he was suspended from his position on April 13, 2012.
On Oct. 11, 2013, Spillman pleaded guilty to bank fraud and money laundering. As a part of the fraud scheme, Spillman caused the bank to grant loans in nominee names, and kept the loan proceeds for himself. Spillman also added debt to loans without the borrowers’ knowledge, and converted the additional funds to his own use. He advanced funds on bank customers’ lines of credit, and converted those funds to his own use. Spillman used a bank credit card for personal expenses. He embezzled and converted to his own use loan payments made by bank customers. Spillman also caused the bank to issue cashier’s checks without depositing funds to cover those checks.
By pleading guilty, Spillman acknowledged that the total financial harm he caused the Bank of Billings as a result of his scheme to defraud was $413,905.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by the FBI, the FDIC-Office of Inspector General and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Nevada man sentenced for $2 million grain fraud scheme
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Nevada, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for his role in a $2 million scheme to defraud Cargill, Inc. by creating fictitious scale tickets for loads of corn that were paid for but never actually delivered to the company’s Butterfield, Mo., feed mill.
Lyle E. Tourtillott, 68, of Nevada, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner on Tuesday, April 1, 2014, to three years and one month in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Tourtillott to pay $1,012,000 in restitution.
On Sept. 3, 2013, Tourtillott pleaded guilty to two counts of mail fraud.
In a separate but related case, Bob True Beisly, III, 40, of Nevada, and Ronald Bunn, 45, of Deerfield, Mo., were sentenced on March 20, 2014. Beisly was sentenced to two years and 11 months in federal prison without parole (to run consecutively to his state criminal cases) and ordered to pay $559,616 in restitution to Cargill. Beisly pleaded guilty on Aug. 6, 2013, to one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud. Bunn was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $754,564 in restitution to Cargill. Bunn pleaded guilty on Nov. 12, 2013, to two counts of mail fraud.
In a separate but related case, Jeffrey Hobbs, 41, of Exeter, Mo., was sentenced on Nov. 21, 2013, to two years and eight months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $2,334,180 in restitution to Cargill. Hobbs pleaded guilty on May 20, 2013, to one count of wire fraud. Each of the defendants will be held jointly and severally liable for the restitution payments.
Hobbs worked as a scale operator and pellet mill operator at Cargill’s Butterfield feed mill from December 1999 until March 2013. When a delivery truck would arrive at the feed mill, Hobbs was responsible for weighing each truck and its contents. Once the truck was weighed, Hobbs created a scale ticket for the company that delivered the grain, corn or feed. A copy of the scale ticket was sent to Cargill’s headquarters in Minneapolis, Minn., for processing and payment to the trucking company.
Tourtillott, Beisly and Bunn approached Hobbs in 2002 about creating fictitious scale tickets for non-delivered loads of corn as a way to make money and ultimately defraud Cargill. Hobbs began creating completely fictitious scale tickets for Tourtillott, Beisly and Bunn for the delivery of loads of grain, corn or feed that did not truly exist. Hobbs referred to these as “ghost loads.”
Hobbs initially received $300 in kickbacks for each “ghost load,” which was later increased to $500 in cash for each “ghost load.”
Tourtillott worked as a driver for his brother, the owner of T&T Grain, which held contracts with Cargill to deliver feed or grain to the Butterfield feed mill. Tourtillott admitted that he received fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Once Hobbs provided Tourtillott with the fictitious scale ticket, Tourtillott would pay a kickback to Hobbs and later receive payment from Cargill. On several occasions, investigating agents conducted undercover audio and video recordings, which confirmed that Tourtillott worked with Hobbs in obtaining fictitious scale tickets at the grain feed mill.
Beisly owned and operated K&B Grain. Beisly obtained contracts with Cargill for the delivery of a set number of grain loads that were supposed to deliver grain, corn or another type of product to the Butterfield feed mill. Beisly admitted that he received numerous fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Beisly also admitted that at least once a week he received a fictitious scale ticket from Hobbs that claimed he had delivered a shipment of grain to the Butterfield feed mill, when in truth and fact, no such shipment or delivery was made. Shortly after the fictitious scale tickets were created by Hobbs, Beisly received a payment from Cargill.
Bunn owned and operating RB Grain. Bunn was contracted through The Scoular Company to transport shipments of wheat, corn and grain to the Cargill feed mill in Butterfield. Bunn also admitted that he received numerous fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Once Scoular received a payment from Cargill based on the submission of a fictitious scale ticket, Scoular issued a check to Bunn based on the delivery of wheat, corn or feed that was never delivered.
Cargill officials discovered the fraud when the amount of grain, corn or feed that was being paid for was inconsistent with the amount they actually received. Over a span of nine years, this fraud scheme caused losses to Cargill of approximately $2 million.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. They were investigated by the FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Nevada, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for his role in a $2 million scheme to defraud Cargill, Inc. by creating fictitious scale tickets for loads of corn that were paid for but never actually delivered to the company’s Butterfield, Mo., feed mill.
Lyle E. Tourtillott, 68, of Nevada, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner on Tuesday, April 1, 2014, to three years and one month in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Tourtillott to pay $1,012,000 in restitution.
On Sept. 3, 2013, Tourtillott pleaded guilty to two counts of mail fraud.
In a separate but related case, Bob True Beisly, III, 40, of Nevada, and Ronald Bunn, 45, of Deerfield, Mo., were sentenced on March 20, 2014. Beisly was sentenced to two years and 11 months in federal prison without parole (to run consecutively to his state criminal cases) and ordered to pay $559,616 in restitution to Cargill. Beisly pleaded guilty on Aug. 6, 2013, to one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud. Bunn was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $754,564 in restitution to Cargill. Bunn pleaded guilty on Nov. 12, 2013, to two counts of mail fraud.
In a separate but related case, Jeffrey Hobbs, 41, of Exeter, Mo., was sentenced on Nov. 21, 2013, to two years and eight months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $2,334,180 in restitution to Cargill. Hobbs pleaded guilty on May 20, 2013, to one count of wire fraud. Each of the defendants will be held jointly and severally liable for the restitution payments.
Hobbs worked as a scale operator and pellet mill operator at Cargill’s Butterfield feed mill from December 1999 until March 2013. When a delivery truck would arrive at the feed mill, Hobbs was responsible for weighing each truck and its contents. Once the truck was weighed, Hobbs created a scale ticket for the company that delivered the grain, corn or feed. A copy of the scale ticket was sent to Cargill’s headquarters in Minneapolis, Minn., for processing and payment to the trucking company.
Tourtillott, Beisly and Bunn approached Hobbs in 2002 about creating fictitious scale tickets for non-delivered loads of corn as a way to make money and ultimately defraud Cargill. Hobbs began creating completely fictitious scale tickets for Tourtillott, Beisly and Bunn for the delivery of loads of grain, corn or feed that did not truly exist. Hobbs referred to these as “ghost loads.”
Hobbs initially received $300 in kickbacks for each “ghost load,” which was later increased to $500 in cash for each “ghost load.”
Tourtillott worked as a driver for his brother, the owner of T&T Grain, which held contracts with Cargill to deliver feed or grain to the Butterfield feed mill. Tourtillott admitted that he received fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Once Hobbs provided Tourtillott with the fictitious scale ticket, Tourtillott would pay a kickback to Hobbs and later receive payment from Cargill. On several occasions, investigating agents conducted undercover audio and video recordings, which confirmed that Tourtillott worked with Hobbs in obtaining fictitious scale tickets at the grain feed mill.
Beisly owned and operated K&B Grain. Beisly obtained contracts with Cargill for the delivery of a set number of grain loads that were supposed to deliver grain, corn or another type of product to the Butterfield feed mill. Beisly admitted that he received numerous fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Beisly also admitted that at least once a week he received a fictitious scale ticket from Hobbs that claimed he had delivered a shipment of grain to the Butterfield feed mill, when in truth and fact, no such shipment or delivery was made. Shortly after the fictitious scale tickets were created by Hobbs, Beisly received a payment from Cargill.
Bunn owned and operating RB Grain. Bunn was contracted through The Scoular Company to transport shipments of wheat, corn and grain to the Cargill feed mill in Butterfield. Bunn also admitted that he received numerous fictitious scale tickets from Hobbs for deliveries that were never actually made. Once Scoular received a payment from Cargill based on the submission of a fictitious scale ticket, Scoular issued a check to Bunn based on the delivery of wheat, corn or feed that was never delivered.
Cargill officials discovered the fraud when the amount of grain, corn or feed that was being paid for was inconsistent with the amount they actually received. Over a span of nine years, this fraud scheme caused losses to Cargill of approximately $2 million.
These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. They were investigated by the FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Former correctional officer sentenced in murder-for-hire scheme
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a former correctional officer at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Mo., has been sentenced in federal court for hiring someone to kill his wife’s ex-husband.
Robert W. Jones, 43, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Monday, March 31, 2014, to six years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 13, 2013, Jones pleaded guilty to using a telephone with the intent that a murder be committed for payment. According to court documents, Jones contacted an inmate at the federal medical center while he was employed as a correctional officer. Jones asked him to assist in hiring a hit man to murder his wife’s ex-husband (referred to as “John Doe” in public court documents). Jones was aware that the inmate had been in a leadership position in a drug-trafficking organization, an affidavit says, and had connections to individuals who could carry out such a request.
The inmate, who was cooperating with investigators, met with Jones for 10 to 15 private conversations in March and April 2012. Jones offered to give the inmate a cell phone to call a hit man, avoiding the possibility of the conversation being recorded if the call were placed on a landline at the prison.
As a part of a routine quarterly personnel shift at the medical center, Jones was moved to a different unit and was therefore unable to meet with the inmate for a period of time. The inmate later reestablished contact with Jones after being moved to a cell in the same unit that Jones was assigned. They met again on June 21, 2012, the first day they were in the unit at the same time. They had multiple meetings during July 2012, with Jones standing outside the inmate’s jail cell and speaking to him through an opening in the door. All the meetings were captured on the unit’s surveillance system. During one of those meetings, Jones told the inmate that his wife had left him and took all their belongings except the couch, television and bills, and he blamed John Doe for his wife’s departure.
An undercover FBI agent posed as a hit man named Chuey, and the inmate gave Jones a telephone number to contact Chuey. Jones contacted Chuey and made arrangements to meet in the food court located inside the Battlefield Mall in Springfield. At that meeting, Jones told the undercover agent he would pay him $1,500 to murder John Doe and provided the undercover agent with a photograph of John Doe, his home address, and $1,500 in cash. At the conclusion of the meeting, Jones was arrested.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners Special Investigative Support, the FBI and the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a former correctional officer at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Mo., has been sentenced in federal court for hiring someone to kill his wife’s ex-husband.
Robert W. Jones, 43, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Monday, March 31, 2014, to six years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 13, 2013, Jones pleaded guilty to using a telephone with the intent that a murder be committed for payment. According to court documents, Jones contacted an inmate at the federal medical center while he was employed as a correctional officer. Jones asked him to assist in hiring a hit man to murder his wife’s ex-husband (referred to as “John Doe” in public court documents). Jones was aware that the inmate had been in a leadership position in a drug-trafficking organization, an affidavit says, and had connections to individuals who could carry out such a request.
The inmate, who was cooperating with investigators, met with Jones for 10 to 15 private conversations in March and April 2012. Jones offered to give the inmate a cell phone to call a hit man, avoiding the possibility of the conversation being recorded if the call were placed on a landline at the prison.
As a part of a routine quarterly personnel shift at the medical center, Jones was moved to a different unit and was therefore unable to meet with the inmate for a period of time. The inmate later reestablished contact with Jones after being moved to a cell in the same unit that Jones was assigned. They met again on June 21, 2012, the first day they were in the unit at the same time. They had multiple meetings during July 2012, with Jones standing outside the inmate’s jail cell and speaking to him through an opening in the door. All the meetings were captured on the unit’s surveillance system. During one of those meetings, Jones told the inmate that his wife had left him and took all their belongings except the couch, television and bills, and he blamed John Doe for his wife’s departure.
An undercover FBI agent posed as a hit man named Chuey, and the inmate gave Jones a telephone number to contact Chuey. Jones contacted Chuey and made arrangements to meet in the food court located inside the Battlefield Mall in Springfield. At that meeting, Jones told the undercover agent he would pay him $1,500 to murder John Doe and provided the undercover agent with a photograph of John Doe, his home address, and $1,500 in cash. At the conclusion of the meeting, Jones was arrested.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners Special Investigative Support, the FBI and the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General.
Springfield man sentenced to eight years on child porn charge
(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Springfield, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
Lonnie Ray Orr, 29, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Monday, March 31, 2014, to eight years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 21, 2013, Orr pleaded guilty to receiving and distributing child pornography. Law enforcement officers identified a computer that was using a peer-to-peer file-sharing network to share child pornography over the Internet, which they traced to Orr.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that a Springfield, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for receiving and distributing child pornography over the Internet.
Lonnie Ray Orr, 29, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Monday, March 31, 2014, to eight years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 21, 2013, Orr pleaded guilty to receiving and distributing child pornography. Law enforcement officers identified a computer that was using a peer-to-peer file-sharing network to share child pornography over the Internet, which they traced to Orr.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
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