Kimbrough Avenue south of Grand to close at 7 p.m. today

(From the City of Springfield)

Utility relocations will cause the Kimbrough Avenue directly south of Grand Street to close from 7 p.m. tonight until 6 a.m. tomorrow. Motorists are advised to use an alternate route. These relocations are part of the Grand Street and Kimbrough Avenue intersection improvements.

Sewer rates going up in Springfield

(From the City of Springfield)

Residents on City wastewater service will see a planned rate increase July 1. The City of Springfield contracts with City Utilities for wastewater services billing, so customers will notice this on August CU bills.

Sewer rates are based on water consumption. This is because the majority ofwater residents use goes down drains and toilets and ends up in the wastewater system. Springfield Cleanwater Services charges a minimum sewer bill and a specific rate for each additional ccf. One ccf equals 748 gallons.

An average residential user with a use of 6 ccf receives a bill for $26.27 per month.  Following the July 1, 2014effective date, a residential user with a 6 ccf use will go to $27.29, or a 4 percent increase.

Urbana teens killed in early morning accident

Two Urbana teens were killed in a one-vehicle accident 1:20 a.m. today on Mill Street in Urbana.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Ford Fusion driven by Holden T. Beck, 17, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, a mailbox, and a fire hydrant, overturned multiple times, and hit two more trees.

Beck and a passenger, Christian Helm, 15, were pronounced dead at the scene by Dallas County Coroner Lamont Swanson. The fatalities were the 48th and 49th this year for Troop D.

A second passenger in the vehicle, Hayden Flag, 14, Urbana, was taken to Mercy Hospital, Springfield, in serious condition.

Flying debris injures three at Shady Beach campground

A report from KSN News

Video- Springfield City Utilities Board June 26 meeting

City Utilities Board – June 26, 2014 from SGF CityView on Vimeo.

Springfield Fire Department warns of use of exploding targets

(From the Springfield Fire Department)

As exploding targets such as Tannerite and other similar brands become more popular, the Springfield Fire Department warns that using these products can be dangerous and potentially illegal.  Using controlled conditions, the Springfield Bomb Squad tested several of these products and found that some are more sensitive than indicated on the packaging, causing the potential for serious injuries.  Several injuries have been reported nationwide and with the 4th of July holiday approaching, the popularity of these products continues to grow.
 
In addition to the potential for serious injuries, users of exploding targets face violating local ordinances along with state and federal laws.  According to the manufacturer’s instructions, the targets are designed to be detonated by a firearm.  However, discharging a firearm is illegal within the city limits of Springfield.  Additionally, modifying the products in any way or using an alternative method for detonating the targets could be a violation of state and federal laws regulating explosives.  In some situations, use of the product could be considered the manufacturing of an improvised explosive device, a felony in state of the Missouri. 
 
Given the dangers associated with the use of exploding targets, Springfield Fire Marshals will use a zero tolerance policy for anyone caught using the products illegally.  If you witness someone using these products within the city limits of Springfield, we encourage you to call 911 immediately.
 

Springfield sanitary sewers being tested today

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield's Clean Water Services Division is testing sanitary sewers today to find leaks in the system with a non-toxic, odorless smoke today within the following boundaries:

North: East Barataria Street
South: East Mimosa Street
West: South Stewart Avenue
East: South Barnes Avenue
Smoke will be blown into the sewer manholes in the street, and will travel through the pipes and will come out wherever there are broken pipes and where roof downspouts, outside area drains, or foundation drains, are connected to the sanitary sewers.

Springfield conducts smoke testing in different parts of the city, in order to locate improper connections, make repairs, test repair methods, and develop a long-term Sanitary Sewer Overflow Control Plan.

Dade County Route A bridge to be closed eight weeks

(From MODOT)

The Dade County Route A bridge over Muddy Fork will be CLOSED up to 56 days beginning the week of July 7, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews are replacing the bridge deck or driving surface.

Drivers will need to find alternate routes around the work zone. Local traffic will be allowed in except for the area immediately adjacent to each side of the bridge which will closed to all traffic.

Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the road closings and detours where they are designated.

Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.

This work is part of a larger project involving a total of four bridges Dade, Barton and Vernon Counties.

Project Background

Prime Contractor: APAC-Missouri, Inc.

Completion Date: Early September 2014

Construction Cost: $1.3 million (This is a total cost of replacing four bridges: Barton County Route F over Horse Creek, Vernon County Route B over Clear Creek, Dade County Route A over Muddy Fork and Vernon County Route E over Clear Creek which will be completed in 2015.)

How could anyone murder this adorable dog?

A KC NBC Action News report on the dog that was killed by a man after the owner rejected his advances.

Springfield Operation Lifesaver results in 16 citations

(From the Springfield Police Department)

This morning, the Springfield Police Department partnered with BNSF Railroad officers and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office in Operation Lifesaver, which is a program aimed toward rail safety education. Operation Lifesaver’s mission is to end collisions, deaths and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and on rail property through a nationwide network of volunteers who work to educate people about rail safety. Law enforcement officers took part in this education process through enforcement of the Springfield city ordinance and Missouri state statute against violating motorists. Officers were positioned in areas near signaled railroad crossings and were also riding area trains. Twenty-four traffic stops were made due to violations being observed in proximity to a monitored crossing, and 16 tickets were issued. The BNSF Railroad, the Springfield Police Department and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind motorists of the legal requirements involving how to properly approach and cross train tracks.

Movies at Springfield's Founders Park to begin July 11

(From the City of Springfield)

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board’s annual Movies at Founders Park series begins Friday, July 11, bringing new release and classic movies to a family-friendly outdoor setting in downtown Springfield’s Founders Park, 330 E. Water St. The series continues every Friday and Saturday night until August 30.

The eight-week movie series is a contemporary version of a drive-in theater. Audiences are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening under the stars.

The series includes a special “drive-in” movie screening during the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival Friday, Aug. 9, at the Springfield Expo Center East Field.

Concessions are available. No tobacco, alcohol or pets allowed.

The season’s complete movie line-up is available at http://parkboard.org/founders_park/movies . As in previous years, Friday is Family Night, Saturday is Date Night. All movies are rated G, PG or PG-13. Feature films begin at dusk.

Admission to Movies at Founders Park is free with advance family 4-pack tickets, or $5 at the gate. Free tickets are available the starting Monday before each film screening at the following locations: 

Chesterfield Family Center, 2511 W. Republic Road
Doling Family Center, 301 E. Talmage St.
Dan Kinney Family Center, 2701 S. Blackman Road
Mediacom Ice Park, 635 E. Trafficway
Busch Municipal Building, 840 Boonville Ave.
Mediacom Communications, 1533 S. Enterprise Ave.

The Park Board partners again this summer with SATO48 to highlight several short films produced by local filmmakers in the 2014 SATO48 film challenge. SATO films will be screened prior to the feature films on Saturday nights. 

Springfield historic brick sidewalks being preserved

(From the City of Springfield)

Five Springfield neighborhoods will benefit from a preservation project as the City of Springfield continues to maintain historic brick sidewalks.

Every three years, funds allocated from the ¼-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax are used to restore historic brick sidewalks in areas determined to be “Corridors of Preservation”. Funding for brick rehabilitation is set at 10 percent of the budget for sidewalk reconstruction set in 2010: $3 million. This year, $250,000 has been allocated to fund the West Central, Woodland Heights, MidTown, Robberson, and Grant Beach neighborhood project sites. Total, these sites measure 28 miles of roadway, with concrete and brick sidewalks on each side. These sites were selected by a Brick Sidewalk Task Force comprised of citizens representing neighborhood associations and city officials. The project includes assessing the area, removing the old brick from the site, and getting rid of the badly damaged bricks. The historic bricks that are still usable are cleaned and restored, then put back into its place using a newer engineering model that includes other natural elements such as gravel and polymeric joint sand that fills the gap between the bricks for a stronger bond to help keep the bricks in place and preserve them into the future. In 2011, 7,349 linear feet of brick rehabilitation was done, but there is still more work to be done.

Jason Saliba, project manager and “Engineer in Training” for Public Works, gave insight into how and why these projects are done: “People like brick because of the historical element ... Brick can last 100 years in some cases, while concrete will only give you 30-40 years." Saliba said one of the main additions to the brick rehab is metal edge restraints that keep the brick from crowing out of its place—which is problematic for sidewalks. In most cases, the bricks were not engineered correctly when placed many years ago, so it is important to redo them for future use. The bricks have endured a lot of wear and tear from natural forces like heat, rain, snow, and other weather elements, being driven on by cars, and being overrun with weeds and grass.

Each Corridor of Preservation’s neighborhood association has input into the design of the newly laid brick and the segment section for rehab. This ensures public participation in the process. Every Corridor of Preservation will get rehabilitation within this project year with at least 1,000 linear feet of brick rehabilitation. 

Contracted out to Advanced Landscape Inc. in Springfield, the project started April of this year and is slated to finish in April 2015. They are currently finishing work on Broadway and Lombard in the West Central site—their first project of the year. Next, they will move to the Woodland Heights Neighborhood focusing on Atlantic Street.

Probable cause statement- Children listened to beating that led to their mother's death

Two Ozark children sat in their rooms behind locked doors and listened to the beating that led to their mother's death.

A probable cause statement filed Monday in Christian County Circuit Court, details the death of Bailey Clemons, a death that authorities say was caused by her husband Aaron, who then tried to cover the crime by burning his house.

Authorities found Bailey Clemons' remains in the house, bound and gagged.

Aaron Clemons, 31, is charged with first degree murder, kidnapping, arson, and two counts each of armed criminal action and endangering the welfare of a child.

His bond has been set at $1 million, cash only.

The crime is described in the probable cause statement:

On 6-16-2014, a house fire was reported at 1205 E. McCracken, Ozark, Mo. I arrived on scene after the fire had been put out. I observed that 1205 E. McCracken was a single family residence and was significantly damaged by fire. I could see that most of the main floor was completely gone. I observed furniture and other household items scattered in the debris. This had all collapsed into the basement of the residence. I was advised the house was owned by L and S and occupied by his daughter and her family.

State Fire Marshal John Matney is the investigator assigned to the arson investigation. On 6-23-2014, he advised that his investigation is still ongoing and they are still processing the scene. He advised that during his preliminary investigation and observations of the scene, he has eliminated all accidental causes and smelled a strong odor of  that which is normally associated with the odor of gasoline. Fire Marshal Matney indicated the fire originated in the basement of the home and burned up through the living room floor. He has located what appears to be two melted gasoline containers in close proximity to the location where the body was discovered. He said the containers still contained a small amount of that which is normally associated with the odor of gasoline

Aaron Clemons called 911 on Monday, 6-6-2014 requesting assistance and advised he had been in the fire at 1205 E. McCracken, Ozark, MO earlier in the day. Aaron was contacted by EMS and transported to Mercy Hospital for treatment. I was advised that upon his arrival Aaron made statements to Mercy Hospital staff members indicating he was involved in the death of his wife and that he intentionally set fire to the residence at 1205 E. McCracken, Ozark, MO to cover it up. Aaron stated to hospital staff that she splashed gasoline around prior to setting the house on fire.

On 6-16-14, I contacted Aaron at Mercy Hospital. At the time of this contact, Aaron stated that his children, EC and GC. were at a campsite in Stone County, MO. When asked where his wife was, Aaron said his wife was dead. I again asked him where she was and he told me she was in the house. When asked how his wife died, Aaron stated that he did not know. Aaron told me he had taped his wife's whole body to a pole by wrapping her around her feet, knees, butt, jaw, and head with boxing tape in the basement. Aaron stated he used boxing tape because it stretched.

Aaron said he talked to her fro an hour or so and then went upstairs to get some ice. Aaron said when he came back downstairs, his wife was dead.

On 6-17-14, human remains were recovered from 1205 E. McCracken, Ozark, MO. The remains were subsequently identified as B. C., the wife of Aaron Clemons. Upon discovery, a gag was observed in B. C.'s mouth. The gag appeared to be a sock and was tied behind her head in such a manner that it pulled the sides of her mouth back. A belt was around her neck that was used as an apparent ligature. Her body was burned in the fire and material which appeared to be tape was observed on and under he body. She was found near a pole by the stairs, consistent with the location inside the house Aaron described to me on 6-16-14.

The search crew who recovered and removed the remains advised that when they were moving the remains into a body bag, they smelled a very strong odor which they described as smelling like gasoline.

Two of the Clemons children, six-year-old EC and nine-year-old GC, were present in the home on Saturday 6-14-14. On 6-6-14, both children were located at a campsite in Stone County, MO. I was advised by Detective Shara Stephens that EC disclosed to Angie Youngblood with the Division of Social Services that her daddy had strangled and hit her mommy. The children had forensic interviews at the  Child Advocacy Center in Springfield, MO. On 6-17=14, Detective Shara Stephens attended the interviews. Detective Stephens advised that both children described their mother coming home on Saturday morning and their dad Aaron Clemons meeting her and there being a fight and the defendant sitting on her and beating her. EC demonstrated with anatomical dolls the defendant pulling her down and repeatedly striking her and pulling her into the bedroom. EC describes her mom, BC, telling her children to go to neighbors and get the cops and their dad telling them no and telling them to go to their rooms. EC describes being there while she was in her bedroom and her mom crying and her dad hitting her mom and her mom saying, "I'm bleeding, I'm bleeding," and her dad said, "It's going to get worse."

EC described the defendant yanking her mom down to the basement and that she could hear him putting the duct tape on her mom and her mom screaming.

At the forensic interview, GC describes seeing his dad on top of his mom and hitting her. He described that his dad was on him mom and was sitting on her and that he could hear her screaming and telling him to go the neighbor and call the cops and that his dad told him no, to go to his room and close and lock the door and that they were in their rooms a long time. He described eventually his dad telling him they could come out, that they were going camping. He described that his dad told him that he had taken their mom to work.

Nixa Police investigate attempted child abduction

A report from KOLR News

Charged: Woman rejects man's advances; he kills her dog

A report from KOLR News

City of Springfield testing sewers

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield's Clean Water Services Division is testing sanitary sewers today to find leaks in the system with a non-toxic, odorless smoke today within the following boundaries:

North: East Battlefield Road
South: East Shady Glen Drive
West: South Stewart Avenue
East: South Barnes Avenue
Smoke will be blown into the sewer manholes in the street, and will travel through the pipes and will come out wherever there are broken pipes and where roof downspouts, outside area drains, or foundation drains, are connected to the sanitary sewers.

Springfield conducts smoke testing in different parts of the city, in order to locate improper connections, make repairs, test repair methods, and develop a long-term Sanitary Sewer Overflow Control Plan.

Appeals court rules against naked Springfield woman

The Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals turned down a Springfield woman who wanted a new trial after being convicted on a misdemeanor sexual misconduct charge after taking off all of her clothes in a Springfield park and refusing to put them back on, She ended up spending 50 days in jail.

The opinion said that Samantha Edwards should have known that her conduct was offensive.

Here, Edwards should have known that exposing her genitals in a public park while there was ample daylight would likely cause affront or alarm. 

Not only that, but when a kindly woman offered Ms. Edwards her bra, she didn't take it.

MODOT Amendment 7 informational meeting planned in Bolivar

(From MODOT)

After years of work by local planning agencies and transportation partners, Missourians are now asked to weigh in on a list of transportation projects and improvements that could improve safety, create jobs, and boost Missouri's economy.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has coordinated a series of open house meetings to ask residents to take a look at the draft list of local priorities and share their comments. The list a provision of Constitutional Amendment 7, an Aug. 5 ballot measure to temporarily raise Missouri's sales tax by ¾ cent.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend a public meeting anytime during the advertised hours to view the draft transportation improvements list and speak with key regional transportation partners. No formal presentations will be made.

Springfield Police note increase in garage burglaries

(From the Springfield Police Department)

One common form of burglary during the summer months is entering open garage doors, and the Springfield Police Department has been noticing an increase in this type of criminal behavior.

“What we’ve been seeing are people forgetting to close their garage doors overnight or choosing to leave them open while being inside or in their back yard,” said Sgt. David Meyer of the SPD's Property Crimes Unit. “Many assume that their belongings are safe since they are at home, but it only takes a few seconds to steal items from an open garage and take off.”
 

Gift of Time Awards presented to top volunteers

(From the City of Springfield)

Ten local citizens were honored by the Council of Churches of the Ozarks and City of Springfield as the Volunteers of the Year at the annual Gift of Time Awards on June 24. Nominated by various nonprofit, public, and service organizations, these 10 recipients were selected from a pool of nominations based on their unique efforts and time given (two were selected from the 21-under Youth Category). All the nominations received were judged by an impartial team of business and civic leaders.

Since 1991, the City of Springfield has recognized exemplary volunteer efforts in the area. This year’s luncheon was held at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center. All the nominees were invited to attend, with the winners being announced for the first time at the ceremony. Beyond being recognized, the winners will have their portraits on display in the RosannaBradshaw Memorial Wall of Fame at the Busch Municipal Building—a wallspecifically created for Gift of Time recipients.

Gift in Time awards to be presented Tuesday

(From the City of Springfield)

For 23 years, Springfield’s Gift in Time Awards has recognized and honored servant leadership to non-profit, public, and human-service organizations in our community. This year, 10 nominees will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award, with two of these individuals coming from the Youth division.

This year’s celebration will be held at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center June 24, 2014 at noon. The recipients of the esteemed award will be announced for the first time at the ceremony.

Join us as we honor some of the best volunteers in our area!

Part of McDaniel Street will continue to be closed

(From the City of Springfield)

McDaniel Street between South Avenue and Robberson Avenue will continue to be closed for utility work associated with the streetscape project. Weather permitting, it should reopen to traffic on July 15.

For more information, contact Paula Brookshire at 417-864-1989.

Closures planned on Battlefield, National in Springfield

(From the City of Springfield)

Battlefield Road and Glenstone Avenue

Construction activities for the Battlefield Road/Glenstone Avenue intersection improvement project require a westbound lane closure beginning Tuesday, June 24 until work is complete.

National Avenue and Walnut Lawn

Construction activities for the National Avenue Southbound Third Lane - Walnut Lawn to Primrose Street project require a southbound lane closure beginning Tuesday, June 24 until work is complete. All southbound lanes will be open by 3 p.m. during most days of the construction. Kerans Construction was awarded this construction project at a cost of $591,865.70 funded from the 1/4-Cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax. The construction is scheduled for completion in November.

Springfield man killed in two-vehicle accident

(From the Springfield Police Department)

At 7:53 a.m. today, the Springfield Police Department was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash involving a tan Toyota Corolla and a gray Jeep Cherokee at the intersection of Sunshine and Enterprise.

At the intersection, the Toyota Corolla, driven by David Cho, 32, of Springfield, struck the rear of the Jeep Cherokee driven by Ann Shepard, 25, of Springfield. After striking the Jeep Cherokee, the Toyota Corolla overturned and ejected Cho from the vehicle. Cho was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. Shepard was uninjured and did not seek medical attention.

Cho’s next of kin has been notified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Springfield police searching for missing person

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department is investigating a report of a missing person and is asking for assistance from the public. The missing person is identified as Phoebe Bryant, a 56-year-old Hispanic female. She is approximately 170 lbs, 4 feet 11 inches tall with brown hair and brown eyes. Bryant was last seen in Springfield on foot on June 17 at approximately 10 a.m.

Bryant's friends and family are concerned that she might be in need of assistance due to a medical condition.

Anyone with information concerning her whereabouts should call 911 or the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810.

Springfield pedestrian struck by car, killed

(From the Springfield Police Department)

At 11:02 p.m. on June 21, the Springfield Police Department was dispatched to the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Loren Street in regards to a pedestrian who had been struck by vehicle near the intersection.

A vehicle, driven by Jordan Fairchild, 27, of Springfield, struck the pedestrian, James Cashier, 52, also of Springfield, as he was crossing the street. Cashier was reportedly crossing the street from east to west near the intersection of Campbell and Loren when he was struck. Cashier was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.

Cashier’s next of kin has been notified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Portion of Springfield's Bennett Street to be closed Tuesday

(From the City of Springfield)

Bennett Street between Fremont Avenue and Delaware Avenue will be closed from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 24 for utility cut repairs. Motorists are advised to use the marked detour via Delaware Avenue, Portland Street and Fremont Avenue.

For more information, please contact Lyle Smith at 417-864-1965

New traffic pattern Friday at Lawrence County intersection

(From MODOT)

New Traffic Pattern at Intersection of

Lawrence County Route T/Route 14

MoDOT Traffic Alert: Where: Lawrence County Route T at Route 14 in McKinley When:  Friday, June 20 What: Drivers on Route T must now STOP at Route 14 Traffic Impacts: Drivers should use caution when approaching the intersection on both Route T and on Route 14 Traffic on Route T must stop before entering Route 14 NOTE: Large electronic message boards have been placed to alert drivers to the new traffic pattern.  Also, orange flags have been placed on the new stop sign to alert drivers.

MODOT meeting to discuss Amendment 7 scheduled in Monett

(From MODOT)

After years of work by local planning agencies and transportation partners, Missourians are now asked to weigh in on a list of transportation projects and improvements that could improve safety, create jobs, and boost Missouri's economy. The Missouri Department of Transportation has coordinated a series of open house meetings to ask residents to take a look at the draft list of local priorities and share their comments. The list a provision of Constitutional Amendment 7, an Aug. 5 ballot measure to temporarily raise Missouri's sales tax by ¾ cent. Members of the media are encouraged to attend a public meeting anytime during the advertised hours to view the draft transportation improvements list and speak with key regional transportation partners. No formal presentations will be made. The entire public meeting schedule, the draft transportation improvement list, and an online comment form are available at www.modot.org/movingforward. WHAT: Open House Public Meetings to Gather Comments on Transportation Improvement List WHEN: Tuesday, June 24, 4-6 pm WHERE: Monett Chamber of Commerce, 200 E. Broadway Street, Monett, MO 65708 WHO: MoDOT Employees, Regional Planning Commission Representatives, Metropolitan Planning Organization Representatives

Crews search for missing diver on Table Rock Lake

A report from KOLR News

Reminder- Fireworks illegal in Springfield city limits

(From the City of Springfield)

Fireworks vendors just outside the City limits will once again begin selling fireworks this weekend. The Springfield Fire Department reminds all citizens that it is illegal to possess, manufacture, store, sell, handle or discharge fireworks within the city limits. While sparklers are legal, remember that even they can be dangerous. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees and cause thousands of injuries each year. Children should also be educated about the dangers of sparklers and other fireworks. They should be properly supervised and never allowed to play with or ignite fireworks.

In a typical year, more U.S. fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day, and fireworks account for half of those fires. In addition to fires, fireworks can also cause injuries including serious burn and eye injuries. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, between June 22 and July 22 of 2012, more than 5,000 consumers were treated in hospital emergency rooms due to fireworks-related injuries. More than half of these reported injuries involved burns to the hands, head and face. About 1,000 reported injuries involved sparklers and bottle rockets. Injuries to children under the age of 15 accounted for about 40% of those injuries.

Over the holiday period, the Springfield Fire and Police Departments will enforce the City’s fireworks ordinance. All fireworks will be confiscated and tickets may be issued.

Chet Hunter named Springfield/Greene County emergency management director

(From the City of Springfield)

The Greene County Commission has selected Chet Hunter, 37, as the new director of the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Hunter was most recently the emergency management director in Lawrence County, a position he has held since 2009. He has also been an EMT-B with Mercy Emergency Medical Services since 2002.

"I am so pleased and humbled to have been offered this wonderful opportunity," Hunter said. "I know that the Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management has a regional, state-wide and national reputation of excellence in the profession, and to be selected as the director at this point in my career is a dream come true for me and my family."

State to seek death penalty for Craig Michael Wood

The state will seek the death penalty for Craig Michael Wood, 45, the man accused of murdering 10-year-old Hailey Owens of Springfield.

Greene County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Patterson failed the notice of intent this morning in Greene County Circuit Court.

The arraignment for Wood, a former coach at Pleasant View Middle School in Springfield, was scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m.

The decision to seek the death penalty was expected, considering the depravity of the crime as outlined in the probable cause statement printed below. The autopsy showed that Hailey Owens had been sexually assaulted so Wood faces charges of murder, armed criminal action, kidnapping, rape, and sodomy.

On 2-18-2014 at 1648, officers were sent to 3247 W. Lombard about an abduction that had just occurred. Officer Castaneda arrived on scene and talked to two eyewitnesses, Carlos and Michelle Edwards. Officer Castaneda got preliminary statements from them, and they were transported to police headquarters for further interviews.

Judge for yourself- Did KSPR's Jerry Jacob use the F word on the air?

Check this video of KSPR anchor Jerry Jacob appearing to say the F word and then read his Facebook explanation of what happened, then judge for yourself.

Video- Complete June 13 Springfield/Greene County Park Board meeting

Park Board Meeting - June 13, 2014 from SGF CityView on Vimeo.

Video- Complete Springfield/Branson Regional Airport Board June 19 meeting

Airport Board - June 19, 2014 from SGF CityView on Vimeo.

Springfield Police release name of shooting victim

A report from KOLR News

Springfield police await DNA test to identify body found in burned home

A report from KOLR News

Lamplighter Inn standoff ends without incident, man to be evaluated

A report from KOLR News

Ozark native donates $3 million to local colleges

A report from KOLR's Grant Sloan

World's Largest Swim Lesson planned Friday in Springfield

(From the City of Springfield)

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board, in partnership with the Ozarks Regional YMCA, will take part in the World's Largest Swim Lesson Friday, June 20, 10 a.m., at Fassnight Pool, 1300 S. Campbell, and the Pat Jones YMCA, 1901 E. Republic Road.

The World's Largest Swim Lesson is a nationwide coalition of waterparks, pools and aquatics programs and associations, joining together to promote water safety and drowning prevention. The coalition holds the holds the current Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson, with 32,450 participants, representing 13 countries.

Woman's body found in rubble of Ozark house fire

A report from KOLR's Laura Kennedy

Barton County bridge to be closed for two months

(From MODOT)

The Barton County Route F bridge over Horse Creek east of Lamar is CLOSED for up to 66 calendar days beginning June 16, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews are replacing the bridge deck or driving surface.

Beginning the week of June 23, the Vernon County Route B bridge over Clear Creek between I-49 and Route DD east of Sheldon is scheduled to CLOSE.  It will reopen by the end of August.

The roads are being closed so contractor crews can move quickly to make the major repairs to the bridges and get them open more quickly for drivers.

Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the road closings and detours where they are designated.

Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.

Two other bridges - Vernon County Route E over Clear Creek east of Milo and Dade County Route A over Muddy Fork southwest of Lockwood - are scheduled for construction in 2015.

Project Background

Prime Contractor: APAC-Missouri, Inc.

Completion Date: September 6, 2015

Cost: $1.3 million

Springfield/Greene Co. Park Board offers outdoor summer programs

(From the City of Springfield)

The Springfield-Greene County Park Board’s Outdoor Initiatives offers a variety of outdoor and nature-based programs throughout the summer for youth, families and adults, including:

Backpacking Cooking Clinic

Learn how to cook while backpacking. Includes packing, setting up camp kitchen and hands-on cooking with fun and easy recipes. Registration required by Tues. prior.
Valley Water Mill Park 833-8923
Age: 11 yrs. and up
Date: Sat., June 21
Time: 9-11 a.m.
Fee: $15/Person, or $20/Person when combined with Basic Camp Cooking Clinic (below)

Greene County Democrats looking for executive director

Job Opening (From the Greene County Central Democratic Committee)

The Greene County Democratic Central Committee is actively seeking qualified applicants for the new position of Executive Director. Please post the enclosed announcement in an appropriate place, or feel free to make copies for your organization’s members:

Job Opening

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE GREENE COUNTYDEMOCRATIC CENTRAL COMMITTEE

June, 2014

DEFINITION:
The Executive Director is the operating arm of the Greene County Democratic CentralCommittee (GCDCC). He/she reports directly to the Chair of the Central Committee and carries out all directives and initiatives of the Central Committee. He/she is also responsible for raising funds in support of the GCDCC headquarters.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Manages the day to day operations of the GCDCC headquarters
2. Recruits and supervises volunteers at headquarters
3. Responsible for upkeep and use of office equipment
4. Maintains and updates voter and donor databases
5. Assists in raising monies in support of the GCDCC
6. Initiates and coordinates media releases and public appearances
7. Communicates and networks with the State Democratic Party, Democratic candidates and various community groups of the Democratic Party such as labor unions, Democrat clubs, minority organizations, etc.
8. Implements various strategies, initiatives, or projects of the Chair of the GCDCC
9. Reports to the GCDCC periodically as to the progress of strategic plans
10. Maintain web sites and social network sites

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

1. Ability to apply basic principles of supervision
2. Ability to communicate well both written and orally
3. Knowledge of and ability to apply techniques of fund raising
4. Ability to operate and understand computers and other office equipment
5. Knowledge of how to conduct political campaigns
6. Ability to work long hours weekends, if needed
7. Have valid Missouri driver’s license and reliable transportation

Luster Avenue to be closed Wednesday

(From the City of Springfield)

Due to unexpected construction delays, Luster Avenue, south of Battlefield Road to Meadow Drive, will also be closed 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 18.

Contact Everett Kelley, in the City's Public Works Street Operations Section at 864-1965 for additional information.

Aurora woman pleads not guilty to murdering four-year-old son

An Aurora woman pleaded not guilty this morning in Lawrence County Circuit Court to murdering her four-year-old son.

Jade L. Murray, 21, is charged with second degree murder and second degree domestic assault in connection with the December 14, 2013, death of Skylar W. Bradley.

The death, according to a probable cause statement included in the court file, died at Mercy Hospital, Aurora, following a beating administered by Ms. Murray, who initially lied to hospital officials and police.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for July 3.

Portion of Luster Avenue to be closed Tuesday

(From the City of Springfield)

Luster Avenue, south of Battlefield Road to Meadow Drive will be closed 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 17 for stormwater improvements. Motorists are advised to use an alternate route.

For more information, contact Everett Kelley in the City's Public Works Street Operations Section at 864-1965.

MODOT seeks project input during meeting tonight in Branson

(From MODOT)

After years of work by local planning agencies and transportation partners, Missourians are now asked to weigh in on a list of transportation projects and improvements that could improve safety, create jobs, and boost Missouri's economy.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has coordinated a series of open house meetings to ask residents to take a look at the draft list of local priorities and share their comments. The list a provision of Constitutional Amendment 7, an Aug. 5 ballot measure to temporarily raise Missouri's sales tax by ¾ cent.

Members of the media are encouraged to attend a public meeting anytime during the advertised hours to view the draft transportation improvements list and speak with key regional transportation partners. No formal presentations will be made.

The entire public meeting schedule, the draft transportation improvement list, and an online comment form are available at www.modot.org/movingforward.

WHAT: Open House Public Meetings to Gather Comments on Transportation Improvement List

WHEN: TONIGHT - Monday, June 16, 4-7 pm

WHERE: Branson City Hall, 110 W Maddux St., Branson, MO 65616

WHO: MoDOT Employees, Regional Planning Commission Representatives, Metropolitan Planning Organization Representatives

Complete probable cause statement- Aurora woman charged with killing 4-year-old son

The first court appearance for an Aurora mother accused of killer her child is scheduled for Monday in Lawrence County Circuit Court.

Jade L. Murray, 21, is charged with second degree murder and second degree domestic assault in connection with the December 14, 2013, death of her four-year-old son, Skylar W. Bradley.

The death, according to a probable cause statement included in the court file, died at Mercy Hospital, Aurora, following a beating administered by Ms. Murray, who initially lied to hospital officials and police.

Bond has been set at $250,000.

The probable cause statement is printed below:

I, Sergeant Daniel F. Nash, a Missouri State Trooper, a law enforcement officer, upon my oath and under penalties of perjury, state as follows:

a. On December 14,2013, Jade L. Murray took her son, Skylar W, Bradley, date of birth, August 25, 2009, to Mercy Hospital in Aurora, Missouri for an unknown illness. Bradley was treated arid then transferred to Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, where he expired.

b. On December 16, 2013, at autopsy was conducted on Bradley where it was determined that Bradley died of a ruptured spleen. There was also a bruise on Bradley's side and back aieo near the location of his spleen.

c. On June 6, 2014, during an interview, Murray advised that she was at her residence in Aurora, Lawrence County, Missouri, and that her son was not obeying, Murray advised that she struck her son on his rear and back area and then began to strike him a second time, but he turned away, Murray advised that this made her angry and that she lost her temper, Murray stated that she then struck Bradley again and that she struck him much harder than she should have. Murrey advised that as she struck Bradley this second time,
the blow knocked him off his bed and spun him around, causing him to tall off the bed and strike his back on his brothers bed, Murray advised that she then picked Bradley up from the floor, put him in his bed and told him to stay there.

d. Murray advised that she left the room and when she returned approximately one hour later, Bradley appeared ill and refused to eat anything, Murray stated that she again left tbe room and upon returning approximately 45 minutes later, found Bradley to be very ill and unresponsive, Murray stated that she then transported Bradley to Mercy in Aurora, Missouri, The injuries to Bradley would be consistent with Murray's statement that he fell and struck his back on the bed and ruptured his spleen.

e. Murray advised that she then lied to hospital officials and law enforcement about this incident and even admitted lying to me during the first part of the interview. Murray advised thai she lied because she was scared.

f. During interviews, witnesses advised that Murray had a very hot temper and that she would routinely strike Bradley, sometimes with her hand, sometimes with a fist and sometimes with a wooden paddle. These witnesses further advised that Murray would strike Bradley so hard that she eventually broke the wooden paddle and that they witnessed bruises on Bradley's body and even his face, These witnesses further advised
that Murray would routinely provide Bradley with NyQuil and other medications, even to include Xanax. These witnesses advised that at times they witnessed Bradley in a drugged condition

Springfield receives $715,000 grant for South Creek Restoration Project

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield has been awarded a $715,000 grant by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) for the South Creek Restoration Project. The project will remove the concrete channel and restore the creek to a more natural condition in the one-mile section along Sunset Street between Campbell Avenue and Kansas Expressway. The purpose of the project is to improve water quality and habitat for aquatic life. The project also aligns with two major goals in the Field Guide 2030 Strategic Plan to utilize native plants in publicly-funded projects and to restore streams and riparian corridors.

The grant is federal funding provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act, through MDNR. The required 40% match will be provided with approximately $450,000 from the 1/4 cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax and the 2006 Springfield-Greene County Parks/Waterways Sales Tax along with contributions of time from City staff and grant partner Ozark Greenways, bringing the total value of the project to more than $1.1 million.

"This grant provides the monetary backing to help a community vision of restored waterways come closer to reality," said Todd Wagner, Principal Stormwater Engineer for the Department of Public Works.

The project is a cooperative effort of the Departments of Public Works and Environmental Service. Olsson Associates is designing the project. James River Basin Partnership (JRBP) and the Ozarks Environmental and Water Resources Institute will be monitoring water quality and aquatic life before and after the project to measure improvement. JRBP will also coordinate education and outreach efforts. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2015.

For more information, contact: Todd Wagner, Public Works Principal Stormwater Engineer, (417) 864-1932; or Carrie Lamb, Environmental Services Water Quality Coordinator, (417) 864-1996.

Lane closures on Battlefield Road for next three weeks

(From the City of Springfield)

Updates to AT&T's telecommunication system will require lane closures on Battlefield Road at different locations over the next three weeks, between Fremont and Golden Avenue. Starting on June 17, lane closures are scheduled to occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

For more information, contact Martin Gugel, P.E., PTOE, Traffic Engineer – Operations, at 417-864-1020 or mgugel@springfieldmo.gov.

Secretary of state cracks down on Ozark Investors Group

(From Secretary of State Jason Kander)

Secretary of State Jason Kander today cracked down on a Hartshorn man and his investment company, ordering him to stop committing fraud against Missourians.

According to an investigation by Kander’s office, Herman Beck and Ozark Investor’s Group, LLC supplied investors with false or incomplete information, taking in more than $130,000 from unknowing victims. After skirting state registration requirements, Beck allegedly took a portion of the investors’ money for himself.

"I encourage Missourians to call my office’s Investor Protection Hotline to ensure that both the person and product they are considering are registered," Kander said. "Nobody who handles people’s hard-earned money should act outside of the law. Not being registered is a major red flag."

Over the course of several years, Beck allegedly solicited prospective investors door-to-door and over the Internet with opportunities to purchase stock in Ozark Investor’s Group, which funneled the money to another business that Beck controlled: Back 40 Group. Beck also directly solicited funds for the Back 40 Group, an Internet-based retailer for books and media.

But none of the investors identified by Kander’s office have received full repayment of the principal of their investment, let alone a profitable return. Instead, the state’s investigation revealed that Beck commingled the investment money with personal and other business funds.

From the combined funds, Beck allegedly made numerous payments to himself as well as a nearby nature preserve that he owned and operated. The state’s investigation also turned up evidence that Beck spent investors’ money at several restaurants and retail establishments.

In defrauding his victims, Beck made claims that far outpaced the true financial position of the Back 40 Group, Kander’s office asserts. According to state investigators, one Summersville resident was told an investment in the Back 40 Group would triple. Allegedly, Beck brought in $40,000 from another victim after saying large investment banks were investing in the company.

"It is management’s opinion that our return to members will be well above average and that the risk is low," Beck wrote on the Back 40 Group’s website.

For the 58 investors who together had at least $130,000 in the operation, Kander’s action creates the possibility that they will be able to reclaim their money in the future. Beck also faces the prospect of multiple civil penalties.

Before making an investment decision, Missourians should call Kander’s toll-free Investor Protection Hotline at 1-800-721-7996.

Closures planned on National Avenue Friday

(From the City of Springfield)

Repair work at the intersection of National Avenue and Grand Street will require lane closures on National Avenue from 1 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday, June 13. One northbound lane, one southbound lane and one northbound turn lane on National Avenue will be closed during that time. Traffic will still be able to move through the intersection in all directions during the lane closures.

For more information, please contact Dustin Keyes at 417-209-0903

Springfield in line to receive federal dollars for fund control

(From the City of Springfield)

Federal legislation to boost infrastructure for water resources includes significant funding for needed stormwater flood control in Springfield.

The Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) includes a $20.86 million authorization making the Springfield Jordan Creek Watershed project eligible for funding. If appropriated, $14 million would come from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and $7 million in cash, services, or in-kind hours would come from a local match. Local match resources may come from the City of Springfield and other local sources.

The project area includes two locations: Wilson's Creek, east of Scenic Avenue to Jordan Creek, north of Bennett Street; and east of Glenstone Avenue between Chestnut and Kearney.

Funded projects include:

• Constructing five detention basins in the upper Jordan Creek Watershed in northeast Springfield that would provide about 165 acre-feet of flood storage volume and reduce downstream flooding throughout the length of Jordan Creek.
  The basins will reduce flood flows downstream along both the north and south branches of the Jordan and the lower Jordan. This includes residential, commercial and industrial areas including downtown.
• Increasing the level of flood protection at the Euticals plant by raising a section of Bennett Street west of Kansas Expressway.
  A low section of Bennett street contributes to the potential for flooding inside the plant. Raising the road in combination with the other improvements to the channel increases the protection of the plant up to a 500-year level.
• Enlarging about 2,100 feet of Jordan Creek from upstream of Bennett Street to upstream of Scenic Avenue
• Modifying a railroad bridge adjacent to the Euticals plant to increase its flood-carrying capacity
• Constructing a diversion structure upstream of Bennett Street to protect the plant

When completed, this series of projects in Springfield is projected to save $1 million annually by preventing flood damages in the area. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this proposal of projects was selected over others because it had the potential for the highest cost to benefit ratio. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers did an extensive economic analysis of the benefits and costs of multiple alternatives as part of a feasibility study performed with the City of Springfield from 2005 to 2013.

The project funding by this bill is part of a bigger, multi-phase initiative ("Renew Jordan Creek") to address flooding and water quality throughout the entire watershed. Renew Jordan Creek aims to reduce the frequency and magnitude of flooding along Jordan Creek, restore ecological function of the Jordan Creek riparian corridor and provide a range of urban and rural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Bringing many acres of land out of the floodplain will also enhance the potential for economic development.

It is not uncommon for cities to experience stormwater problems that result in property damages, flooded roadways and compromised water quality. Stormwater runoff associated with urban development is an issue facing communities across the country and one that often carries a hefty price tag to address.

Cities are faced with the need to invest in their stormwater systems in order to meet regulatory requirements and to protect water quality. But, these mandates often have no identified funding source.

The City of Springfield and Greene County take stormwater management seriously and for five years had a Springfield-Greene County Parks/Stormwater Sales Tax to fund projects that improved water quality and access to lakes, streams and waterways in public parks. Those projects include enhancements at Nathanael Greene / Close Memorial Park, Doling Lake and Waterway; Sequiota Park; Fassnight Park and Dickerson Park Zoo.

The City is currently working on the final project funded by that 2006 tax, which sunset in June 2012. Since that time, neither the City nor the County has a dedicated funding source to address stormwater expenses.

To help address a variety of challenges, a group of 30 representing a variety of interests worked for six months on a Citizens' Stormwater Management Task Force, analyzing the community's water quality/unfunded mandates, flood risk and aging infrastructure.

Recognizing that stormwater becomes drinking water, the group included engineers and business owners, environmental advocates and ordinary citizens. Dan Hoy, Facilities Manager, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, served as co-chair for the group.

"Stormwater management and pollution prevention is a public obligation of intrinsic value to every citizen," Hoy explained. "Clean drinking water and modern management systems are critical for public health and safety, strong local businesses, population growth, and clean waterways."

The group came up with a conservative recommendation to potentially fund water quality programs, flood risk reduction projects and infrastructure life cycle repair/replacement programs with a county-wide 1/10 of one percent sales tax as a permanent, dedicated funding source to cover ongoing operating expenses and a sun setting 1/8-cent sales tax to be utilized for capital projects for system repair / replacement and to address additional looming environmental regulations.

Meanwhile, the City has already applied $90 million in stormwater management over the past 18 years.

Recent improvements to Jordan Creek include: $2.2 million in creek daylighting and restoration; $2 million in Brownfields cleanup and floodplain restoration, $3 million in property acquisition and $1 million in bridge replacement. These are small pieces of a bigger plan to address problems across the entire Jordan Creek Watershed.

About the WRDA

The WRDA will authorize the Army Corps of Engineers to study and construct water projects to maintain navigable channels, and reduce flood and storm damage. The legislation addresses a range of funding issues for water projects by establishing a new pilot loan program to fund flood and water supply projects, addresses harbor maintenance and issues surrounding lock and dam projects on the inland waterways, and increases funding for levee and dam safety programs.

Caught on video: Man steals cancer victim donation jar

A report from KOAM News KOAM TV 7

Family friend fears investigation of Tyrell murders will go cold

A report from KOLR News

Trooper back on duty following drowning of suspect

A report from KOLR News

Cox South waiting room closed after bed bugs found

A report from KOLR News

Springfield teen sentenced for 2013 DWI death

A report from KOLR News

Threatening man shot to death by Cassville police officer

Legislative special interest spree could cost Springfield, Greene County millions

(From the City of Springfield)

The Joint City-County Task Force met Wednesday to discuss recently passed state legislation that if signed into law could erode the local sales tax base. The group attempted to answer the question, "Is there a legitimate cause for alarm at the local level?"

Officials on hand gave a resounding "yes" to that question, after the finance departments of both the City and County did an initial fiscal analysis.

Grand jury indicts Springfield men for stealing guns from pawn shop

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced that four Springfield, Mo., area men were indicted by a federal grand jury today for stealing 21 handguns from an Ozark, Mo., pawn shop.

Daryl Bradley Maples, 27, Corey Lynn Downard, 32, and Matthew James Oakley, 23, all of Springfield, Mo., and Michael Cameron Heston, 25, of Republic, Mo., were charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.

Today’s indictment alleges that Maples, Downard, Heston and Oakley aided and abetted each other to illegally enter Sutton Gun and Pawn, a licensed firearms dealer located at 3994 N. 20th St., Ozark, Mo., and steal 21 handguns on Dec. 21, 2012.

Maples is also charged with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. The indictment alleges that Maples, having been convicted of a felony crime, was in possession of an F.N. 9 mm pistol, a Colt Canada .38-caliber revolver and assorted ammunition on Dec. 26, 2012. Maples is also charged with selling two stolen firearms – a Rossi .38-caliber revolver and a Smith & Wesson .357-caliber revolver – on Dec. 21, 2012.

Downard is also charged with being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that Downard, having been convicted of a felony crime, was in possession of two Beretta .40-caliber pistols on Dec. 21, 2012.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

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 Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Ozark, Mo., Police Department and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Five plead guilty in Springfield 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 today that five defendants pleaded guilty in federal court this week to charges related to a large-scale methamphetamine conspiracy.

Jerry Dean Wright, Jr., 38, and his wife, Shannon K. Wright, 36, both of Ozark, Mo., Perry L. Adams, 39, of Springfield, Mo., and Joseph A. Dreckmeier,32, of Gilbert, Ariz., pleaded guilty today in separate appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England to the charges contained in a May 6, 2014, federal indictment. Co-defendant Salvador Campos, 32, of Los Angeles, Calif., pleaded guilty on Tuesday, June 10, 2014.

By pleading guilty, Jerry Wright, Adams, Dreckmeier and Campos each admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine between Sept. 4, 2012, and June 5, 2013. They also each pleaded guilty to money laundering. Shannon Wright pleaded guilty to money laundering.

Jerry Wright was involved with a group in the southwest Missouri area that distributed large amounts of methamphetamine. He arranged for multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine to be shipped from Arizona and California to Missouri. Jerry Wright and other members of the conspiracy received the methamphetamine and distributed it in southwest Missouri.

Jerry and Shannon Wright, Adams, Dreckmeier and Campos are among nine co-defendants who have pleaded guilty in this case.

Drug-Trafficking Conspiracy

On April 11, 2013, officers with the Texas Department of Public Safety stopped a vehicle that was carrying approximately nine pounds of methamphetamine. A search of the car revealed that it was registered to Shannon Wright and the insurance was in the name of Jerry Wright. The methamphetamine was intended for delivery to Wright.

In June 2013, an investigation in the state of California led to the stop of several individuals in Missouri. Co-defendant Myrna Aguirre, 42, of Los Angeles, drove a Mercedes to Springfield containing approximately 10 pounds of pure methamphetamine. After delivering it to Springfield, Missouri, Campos and other co-defendants took possession of the Mercedes. They were attempting to deliver it to Jerry Wright, when they were stopped by law enforcement and the methamphetamine was found hidden in the vehicle. Aguirre has also pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy.

In October 2012, co-defendants Robert Joseph Cantrell, 42, of Seymour, Mo., and Brandon Hinkley, 35, of Republic, Mo., drove to Arizona and met with Dreckmeier. Dreckmeier arranged for approximately 25 pounds of methamphetamine to be loaded into a rental vehicle, which Hinkley then drove back to Missouri and delivered to Jerry Wright. Cantrell and Hinkley have pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy.

In addition to the 25-pound methamphetamine shipment arranged in October 2012, Jerry Wright arranged with Dreckmeier for at least three other multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine to be sent to Missouri in a VW Beetle that was equipped with a hidden compartment. These shipments were also being sent to Jerry Wright for distribution by him and other members of the conspiracy in southwest Missouri.

Shannon Wright and other members of the conspiracy distributed the methamphetamine in southwest Missouri. Shannon Wright also collected money for Jerry Wright, which had been paid for the distribution of methamphetamine.

During the conspiracy, Adams received small amounts of methamphetamine from Jerry and Shannon Wright and then sold it to others. On April 1, 2013, Adams was stopped by police and found to be in possession of 1/8 ounce of methamphetamine which he had received from Jerry Wright. Adams was also present when Jerry Wright removed a large amount of methamphetamine from a Chevrolet Avalanche in the spring of 2013, which is estimated to be between two to four pounds.

Money Laundering

On March 7, 2013, Adams and Jerry Wright brought $29,600 in cash to Springfield Imports car dealership in Springfield for the purchase of a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro. The money used to purchase the Camaro was derived from the distribution of methamphetamine and the transaction was designed to conceal that fact.

On April 7, 2013, Jerry Wright brought approximately $47,848 in cash to Midwest Auto Group Motors LLC for the purchase of a 2010 Dodge Challenger and a 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. The money used to purchase the Challenger and the Camaro was derived from Jerry Wrights’ distribution of methamphetamine.

On April 8, 2013, Dreckmeier brought $35,000 in cash to Reliable Chevrolet in Springfield for the purchase of a 2013 Chevrolet Camaro. Shannon Wright brought another $8,000 the following day. The transaction was conducted on behalf of Jerry Wright. The money used to purchase the Camaro was derived from the Wrights’ and Dreckmeier’s distribution of methamphetamine.

Forfeiture

Under the terms of today’s plea agreements, Jerry and Shannon Wright must forfeit to the government a 1998 Jaguar, two 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycles, a 2004 Chevrolet SSR, a 2005 Pontiac GTO, a 2006 Chrysler 300C, a 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche, a 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche, two 2010 Chevrolet Camaros, a 2010 Dodge Challenger and a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro, all of which were obtained from the proceeds of the methamphetamine trafficking.

Sentencing

Under federal statutes, Jerry Wright is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $20 million.

Shannon Wright is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $250,000.

Adams is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $10.5 million.

Dreckmeier is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole, plus a fine up to $10,250,000.

Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Milligan. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Webster County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the Ozark, Mo., Police Department.