Highway Patrol Arrests February 28-29

Klaire M. Hardy, 23, Joplin, driving while intoxicated

Richard C. Fulton, 47, Conway, misdemeanor Marshfield Police Department warrant for drugs

Keith A. Reeves, 51, Bolivar, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, failure to drive on right half of roadway

Ken A. Platner, 52, Neosho, driving while intoxicated








Breanna N. Brown, 26, Kansas City, misdemeanor possession of marijuana

Jenna C. Rhodes, 38, Forsyth, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, failure to drive on right half of roadway

Brian A. Wharton, 51, Springfield, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to display valid plates

Christina M. Porter, 39, Branson, Taney County misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear on no valid license and shoplifting

***
The true story of the murders of two children that shocked two Missouri towns. Lost Angels: The Murders of Rowan Ford and Doug Ringler is available in paperback and e-book.

Lone Pine Avenue between Kirkwood and Seminole streets to close

(From the City of Springfield)

Street repairs will require the closure of Lone Pine Avenue between Kirkwood Street and Seminole Street beginning 7 a.m., Monday, March 2 through 9 a.m., Tuesday, March 3.

Access to all residences will be maintained. All through traffic is advised to follow the marked detour.

Buffalo pedestrian killed trying to cross 65

A Buffalo woman was killed in a vehicle-pedestrian accident 12:26 p.m. Thursday on U. S. 65, two miles south of Buffalo.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Jody L. Ray, 50, Buffalo, was attempting to cross the northbound lanes of U. S. 65 was struck by a northbound 2014 Dodge Ram truck driven by Arlin V. Crump, 73, Buffalo.







Ray was pronounced dead by Dr. Ross at Cox South Hospital, Springfield, at 1:16 p.m.

The fatality was the 17th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Lawrence County Road 1222 to be closed at I-44

(From MODOT)

TRAFFIC ALERT: Lawrence Co. Rd. 1222 CLOSED at I-44 Starting March As Work Resumes on Bridge Projects

What: Lawrence County Road 1222 CLOSED underneath I-44 southwest of Halltown for construction of new I-44 bridges at Turnback Creek and Goose Creek

When: Thursday, March 5, until construction of new bridges complete

Why: Contractor crews constructing a crossing at Turnback Creek

Traffic Impacts

-All lanes of Lawrence County Road 1222 CLOSED where crews are set up working

-Drivers will be able to access driveways and entrances on either side of the work zone, but will not be able to travel through the work zone

-Drivers urged to find alternate routes. No signed detours are planned.

-Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the work zone

Weather and/or scheduling conflicts could alter the work schedule

Details: This is part of a larger project, I-44 Project Bridge Rebuild, to replace or rehabilitate 19 bridges on I-44 between Halltown and Sarcoxie. Some of the bridges are original to the construction of I-44 in the 1960s. Completion date for the project is December 15, 2021. However, the contractor has set a goal to have all major bridge work complete by the end of 2020.

Highway Patrol Arrests February 27-28

Anthony L. Castillo-Dobias, 17, Carthage, driving while intoxicated (drugs), no seat belt, failure to drive on right half of roadway, no insurance, driver license restriction violation, possession of marijuana, assault in the second degree (two counts)

Kerry N. Roscoe, 62, Tulsa, Oklahoma, felony tampering with a motor vehicle

Kayla N. Mohr, 32, Carthage, felony possession of a controlled substance

Springfield man sentenced to 10 years on federal weapons charge

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

A Springfield, Missouri, man has been sentenced in federal court for illegally possessing a firearm.

Dionysus Azeria Hale, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes on Monday, Feb. 24, to 10 years in federal prison without parole, which is the statutory maximum for this offense.

On Aug. 14, 2019, Hale pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, Springfield police officers executed a search warrant at Hale’s residence on Feb. 20, 2019, as part of an investigation into the distribution of heroin and/or fentanyl. In Hale’s front right pocket were two zipper pouches that contained a total of $3,264. Officers found a loaded Glock .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol with an extended capacity magazine in the bedroom. Hale’s sentence reflects the court’s ruling that Hale used or possessed the firearm in connection with a drug-trafficking offense.

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

In 2001, Hale was convicted of possession of a controlled substance in two separate cases and was given a suspended two-year sentence, but his probation was revoked due to incurring numerous violations.

In 2002, Hale was convicted of possession with the intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance and had his parole revoked numerous times for various violations.

While on parole, Hale committed and was convicted of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and once again had his probation and parole revoked due to numerous violations.

While on supervision for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, Hale committed and was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hale was sentenced to 80 months in federal prison and released on Jan. 6, 2017. Upon being placed on supervised release, he incurred violations that led to a revocation of his supervised release and received a seven-month sentence and a new two-year term of supervised release. While on his new term of supervised release, he committed this offense of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Trafficway Street north of 505 E. St. Louis to be closed next week

(From the City of Springfield)

The installation of a new water main will require the continued closure of Trafficway Street, immediately north of the 505 E. St. Louis Street apartment construction site, beginning 8 a.m., Monday, March 2 through 3 p.m., Friday, March 6.

All businesses in the area will remain open and accessible. Motorists and pedestrians are encouraged to use caution when traveling near the work site and to respect all traffic control safety measures.

Aurora man sentenced to 12 years, 7 months on child pornography charges

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

An Aurora, Missouri, man has been sentenced in federal court for receiving and distributing child pornography.

Michael Steven Copfer, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes on Monday, Feb. 24, to 12 years and seven months in federal prison without parole.

The court also sentenced Copfer to 15 years of supervised release following incarceration. Copfer will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

On Sept. 9, 2019, Copfer pleaded guilty to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography. Copfer was identified by law enforcement after Google discovered files containing images of child pornography stored in Copfer’s Google Photos account.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force.

Highway Patrol Arrests February 26-27

Daniel D. Coursey, 34, Marshfield, felony Seymour Police Department warrant for failure to appear on assault, felony Rogersville Police Department warrant for failure to appear on possession of a controlled substance, driving while revoked

Chad A. Peak, 48, Girard, Kansas, driving while intoxicated, no seat belt








Vernie J. Phelan, 41, Strafford, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia

Julissa E. Tamez Ruiz, 20, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no valid license, no insurance

Springfield Public Schools names Study Alternative Center director

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools is pleased to announce that Ms. Brenda Dennis will serve as the next director of Study Alternative Center, effective July 1 for the 2020-2021 school year. Ms. Dennis will follow Mr. Justin Dickenson, who retires June 30.

Ms. Dennis is currently an assistant principal with Emporia High School in Emporia, Kansas.

Prior experience includes serving as a high school assistant principal, a middle school counselor, and a teacher for Shelby County Schools in Tennessee, and as a teacher for Milwaukee Public Schools.

"I have always believed that strong relationships and continuous learning are at the core of school success," said Ms. Dennis. "When teachers, students, families and school leaders work together to make those connections and are dedicated to a common vision, there's no limit to what we can achieve. I am excited that Springfield Public Schools is providing this opportunity to continue doing what I love."

Ms. Dennis completed her undergraduate work in education from Cardinal Stritch University in Wisconsin, as well as a Master of Education in School Counseling and an Education Specialist in Administration and Supervision from Freed-Hardeman University in Tennessee.

Her daughter, DeKyra Dennis, is a student at Jackson State University in Mississippi and will begin her senior volleyball season this fall.


"Our team looks forward to welcoming Ms. Dennis to Study Alternative Center and to SPS," said Dr. Shane Dublin, executive director of secondary learning for SPS. 

"Ms. Dennis' experience with trauma-informed care, career and technical education, restorative practices, social-emotional learning and data-driven leadership make her exceptionally well-prepared for this opportunity."

Barry County Sheriff: Who's this residential burglary suspect?

(From the Barry County Sheriff's Office)

The Barry County Sheriff’s Office is asking for your help identifying this subject that is a suspect in residential burglary just south of Washburn off of State Highway 37 February 23.

If you know who this male subject is we would love to speak with him. 

Please contact us at 417-847-6556.

Lebanon man sentenced to 15 years on child pornography charge

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

A Lebanon, Missouri, man was sentenced in federal court today for producing child pornography.

Michael Brannon, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to 15 years in federal prison without parole.

On Aug. 5, 2019, Brannon pleaded guilty to producing child pornography.

According to court documents, Facebook submitted a CyberTipline report to law enforcement in June 2018 regarding an online conversation between Brannon and the 16-year-old victim, identified in court documents as “Jane Doe #1.” During the course of the chat, which was sexual in nature, Jane Doe #1 transmitted pornographic images to Brannon at his request.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Lebanon, Mo., Police Department, and the Lake Area Cyber Crimes Task Force.

Springfield sex offender sentenced for failing to register

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

A Springfield, Missouri, man was sentenced in federal court today for his fourth conviction of failing to register as a sex offender.

Terry Lee Holmes, 66, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to two years and nine months in federal prison without parole. Holmes will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

On Oct. 10, 2019, Holmes pleaded guilty to failing to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, Holmes has failed to register and follow the registration laws since his release from state prison in Illinois, where he served 20 years for aggravated criminal sexual assault. For more than 14 years, he has disregarded his registration requirements. Holmes failed to register even after he was repeatedly convicted for failing to register as a sex offender.

Holmes was located by a deputy marshal, who learned he was living near an elementary school playground. He has never registered in the state of Missouri as a sex offender.

Holmes has prior felony convictions for the aggravated sexual assaults of two victims, a 3-year-old and a 7-year-old child, and three prior felony convictions (in Illinois and Arkansas) for failing to register as a sex offender.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.

Fremont Avenue to close in separate phases between Grand Avenue, Sunshine Street

(From the City of Springfield)

City Utilities will close Fremont Avenue in separate phases between Grand Avenue and Sunshine Street beginning Monday, March 2 to complete gas and water renewals. 

The work is expected to last through the beginning of May. Each of the following project phases will close entirely to through traffic but access will be maintained to residences:

Phase 1: Grand Street to Catalpa Street
Phase 2: Catalpa Street to Bennett Street
Phase 3: Bennett Street to Portland Street
Phase 4: Portland Street to Sunshine Street

Motorists are advised to follow the posted detour.

Governor to visit site of West Plains project

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

Governor Mike Parson will visit a transportation cost-share project site in West Plains. The project was selected under Governor Parson’s 2019 cost-share program and will construct a new entrance to Ozarks Medical Center on Route 63.

The project will provide intersection improvements and reconstruct the road network surrounding the medical center. The new signalized intersection on Route 63 will provide greater access to the new Medical Office Building and the newly relocated Emergency Room, enhancing safety and relieving congestion in the area.

 

The project is scheduled to be bid in 2020 with construction continuing through 2021.

During the visit, Governor Parson will meet with Missouri Department of Transportation employees, local officials, and Ozarks Medical Center President and CEO Tom Keller. A short press conference will also take place at the end of the visit.

 

Governor Parson to visit West Plains transportation cost-share project site

               When:     4:35 - 5:20 p.m.       

               Where:    Ozarks Medical Center

                                1100 Kentucky Ave, West Plains, MO 65775 

Branson Police Department K9 unit receives training gear

(From the Branson Police Department)

Branson Police Department and our K9 Unit would like to thank the community for the generous donations received in through the 2019 fundraisers hosted for our K9 Unit.

Because of these initiatives, we were able to purchase a new Demanet K9 Training Suit for obedience and operations training.

K9 Officer Gamble is pictured wearing this new suit with his K9 Tygo, and with K9 Officer Harvey and his K9 Cobra.

We are so grateful for the continuous support of our community and the opportunities to advance our equipment for training and officer safety.

Springfield woman sought on forgery, bad check charges

(From Greater Springfield Area Crime Stoppers)

The featured fugitive is Tawana Nichole Atterberry, Springfield.

Atterberry has several active, felony warrants for Failure to Appear for Forgery and Passing Bad Checks, and Probation Violations for Receiving Stolen Property and Forgery. Atterberry is a 27 years of age, black female, and is approximately 5’06” tall, 167 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. 

Atterberry is believed to have been involved with forgeries and passing bad checks to businesses in the Springfield-Greene County area. 

She is known to use the different variations of the spellings of her first name. Atterberry is believed to frequent numerous, different addresses within the Springfield - Greene County area.

Law enforcement is asking the public for assistance in locating Atterberry. 

If you have any information about her whereabouts, please contact Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.p3tips.com. If anyone sees or locates Atterberry, they are also asked to contact 911 immediately and DO NOT ATTEMPT to apprehend her.

Mount Vernon man seriously injured in one-vehicle crash

A Mount Vernon was injured in a one-vehicle accident 10:30 p.m. Tuesday on Lawrence County 1115, two miles north of Mount Vernon.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1999 Chevrolet K1500 driven by Cayden R. Heisner, 20, Mount Vernon, traveled off the roadway and struck a sign, a fence and a tree.

Heisner was treated for serious injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol Arrests February 25-26

Jasmine M. Harris, 28, St. Louis, felony possession of a controlled substance- hydrocodone, misdemeanor Wayne County traffic warrants

Nicholas R. Golob, 38, Merriam Woods, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Edward L. Good, 68, Galena, driving while intoxicated

Gary D. Adams, 29, Seligman, Barry County felony warrant for probation violation, possession of drug paraphernalia








Fredy A. Gomez-Lopez, 19, Butler, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding

James N. Gibbs, 32, Joplin, felony driving while intoxicated

Nathaniel L. Riddick, 18, Seymour, Douglas County warrant for child molestation, no seat belt, no valid plates

Troy E. Williams, 56, Springfield, misdemeanor Christian County probation violation warrant for driving while intoxicated, driving while revoked, no seat belt

Springfield man sentenced for role in meth trafficking conspiracy

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

A Springfield, Missouri, man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Tim I. Hocutt, 53, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 13 years in federal prison without parole.

On June 25, 2019, Hocutt pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of distributing methamphetamine. Hocutt admitted that he participated in the drug-trafficking conspiracy from Sept. 20, 2017, to Feb. 7, 2018.

Hocutt admitted that he sold methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer in Springfield on two separate occasions.

Hocutt also possessed methamphetamine at the time of his arrest on Feb. 7, 2018. Hocutt admitted that he had been selling methamphetamine almost daily for approximately one year. Hocutt also admitted to having purchased from co-conspirators, and distributed to others, at least 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine during that time period.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Keller. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.

Kindergarten enrollment open in Springfield Public Schools

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Children who will be turning five years old before August 1 can complete the online enrollment application now to start kindergarten in the fall. Applications can be completed until the first day of the 2020-2021 school year, which is Monday, Aug. 24.

Parents and guardians should follow the steps below to enroll their child with Springfield Public Schools:

Schedule kindergarten immunizations. Contact your primary physician or the Springfield-Greene County Health Department to schedule immunizations. For more information about scheduling immunizations if you don't have insurance or you have Medicaid, call 874-1220 for the West Side Public Health Center.

Gather supporting documents. Needed documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, Social Security card and immunization records.
Schedule a kindergarten screening. Contact the Office of School Readiness at Shady Dell Early Childhood Center, located at 2757 E. Division St., by calling 523-1333.

Register for kindergarten. To submit an enrollment application online, click here. After completing the online enrollment application, you must take all supporting documents to your designated school on the date listed here. If you are unable to complete the application online, you can register your child at the school on the date listed below.

Students currently in SPS preschool programs (Wonder Years and ECSE) DO NOT need to register for kindergarten. They will be screened at school in May and their registration paperwork is already complete. If, however, you have moved or are planning to move, please notify your current preschool office of the address change.


View kindergarten registration dates by school.

Barry County Sheriff to auto theft suspect: You dropped your hat running from us- come back to claim it

(From the Barry County Sheriff's Office)

Trenton James Stephenson, aka Trent, 38 years old is wanted on multiple warrants related to stealing and auto theft.

Last 2-20-20 in the Eagle Rock area on a stolen white Honda 400cc dirt bike motorcycle.

Known to frequent Golden/Eagle Rock, as well as Holiday Island/Berryville area. May have some ties to East Purdy as well.

If you see him, please call 911 immediately! Any information you provide about Trent Stephenson is strictly confidential!

Thank you!

Barry County Dispatch Non-Emergency 417-847-3121

PS, Trent, you dropped your hat in the road yesterday running from us. We picked it up for you. Come by the office if you want it back.

Highway Patrol Arrests February 24-25

Tracy D. Westerfield, 25, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana

Paula J. Blevins, 31, Seymour, delivery of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, felony no valid license, possession of marijuana, no insurance, no seat belt

Travis C. Gauch, 24, Ava, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no seat belt








Hunter J. Davis, 18, Ponce De Leon, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Brandi M. Maus, 29, Schell City, felony possession of a controlled substance-clonazepam, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, failure to drive on right half of roadway causing accident, no seat belt

Michael S. Whited, 35, Eureka Springs, misdemeanor Christian County warrant for non-support, speeding, no seat belt

Complete video of tonight's Springfield City Council meeting

Springfield man flown to Cox South after crashing into tree

A Springfield man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 2:10 a.m. Saturday on MO 13, three miles south of Highlandville.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2011 Mercedes Benz ML320 driven by Marcus E. Shockley, 21, Springfield, ran off the roadway, struck a tree and overturned.

Shockley was airlifted to Cox South Hospital, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.

Springfield woman killed in crash at Division Street and Johnson Avenue

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Feb. 23rd at 10:49 AM, the Springfield Police Department was dispatched to a single-vehicle accident at Division Street and Johnson Avenue.

A 2013 Mini Cooper, driven by 47-year-old Bradley Benson of Beaverton, Oregon, was traveling westbound. The vehicle crossed the eastbound lanes and ran off the south side of the road, striking a utility pole and rolling over.

Both Benson and the female passenger, 45-year-old Sharon Holesapple of Springfield, were transported to Mercy Hospital where Holesapple died from her injuries. Benson is listed in stable condition.

Neither victim was wearing a seatbelt. Next of kin has been notified and the investigation is on-going. This the third fatal accident and fourth traffic fatality this year in Springfield.

Seven people, including one-year-old, injured in crash near Aurora

Seven people were injured in a two-vehicle crash 9:05 p.m. Sunday on MO 39, two miles south of Aurora.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1998 GMC pickup driven by a 15-year-old Galena girl failed to stop for a stop sign and struck a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by John R. Brooks, 33, Cassville, on the front driver's side causing both vehicles to run off the roadway.

All four occupants of the pickup, none of whom were wearing seat belts, were ejected.







The 15-year-old girl was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield. Two passengers in the pickup, Cody G. Lomax, 17, Crane, and Shawn L. Hair, 21, Billings, were taken to Mercy with serious and minor injuries, respectively.

Another passenger in the pickup, Jacob A. Hair, 22, Billings, was treated for serious injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Brooks and two passengers in his vehicle, Lindsay J. Brooks, 35, and a one-year-old boy, both of Cassville, were treated for moderate injuries at Cox South.

Nighttime lane/ramp closings planned for I-44 west of Springfield

(From MODOT)

Drivers can expect nighttime lane and ramp closings on Interstate 44 west of Springfield beginning the week of March 2 and lasting for several months when a project to upgrade guardrail, lengthen interchange ramps and resurface the roadway begins, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The project is planned for the section of I-44 running between a point east of Missouri Route 360 (Mile Marker 69) and Missouri Route 266/Chestnut Expressway (Mile Marker 72) west of Springfield.

Contractor crews will be on the roadway between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. each night. Drivers can expect crews and equipment to be on the road with bright lights illuminating work areas.

Tentative work schedule and traffic impacts: 

-Crews will begin upgrading guardrail to current federal standards beginning the week of March 2 through late May. Nighttime lane closings are expected where crews are set up working.

-Crews will begin extending interchange ramps in mid-April. Interchange ramps may be closed at times during the work.

-The resurfacing portion of the project is scheduled to begin in early June and last until mid-August. 

-Both eastbound and westbound I-44 lanes will be resurfaced with nighttime lane closings.

Journagan Construction of Springfield is the prime contractor, doing the work for a low bid amount of $6.9 million.

The project must be completed by December 1, 2020. However, the contractor expects to complete the project by mid-August.

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

Highway Patrol Arrests February 23-24

Hayley E. Cloud, 18, Nixa, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving involving a crash, failure to register motor vehicle, no insurance

James T. Roberts, 36, Nevada, felony out-of-state fugitive








Hubert H. Hoosman, 22, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, speeding (92 in a 65), no seat belt

Bruce F. Vaughn, 35, Bolivar, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine

Highway Patrol Arrests February 22-23

Justin Talamantez, 21, Carthage, driving while  intoxicated, driving while revoked, no insurance, failed to drive on right half of roadway

Steven L.Taylor, 64, Joplin, felony driving while intoxicated, felony driving while revoked

Cierra Presley, 33, Independence, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, speeding, failure to register








Trevor J. Jackson, 29, Lowry City, driving while intoxicated, failure to yield, no seat belt

Kimberly A. Mitrenga, 54, Branson, driving while intoxicated

Samuel L. Lane, 37, Sarcoxie, driving while intoxicated, no insurance, careless and imprudent driving involving a crash, no insurance, no seat belt, consuming alcohol while driving a vehicle

Terry J. Daniels, 39, Cassville, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no seat belt, no insurance

Springfield Public Schools donates record amount to Ozarks Food Harvest

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Together, 83 Springfield Public Schools and partnering organizations collected a record-breaking 66,700 meals in the ninth annual Food Fight competition to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest.

Students spent two weeks in January collecting food and fund donations. The food donations will benefit Ozarks Food Harvest’s partner food pantries in Springfield, including SPS school pantries. 

The collected funds will sponsor 40 children for a full school year of Weekend Backpack Program meals. 

The five elementary schools with classes winning field trips to tour Ozarks Food Harvest are Boyd, Cowden, Fremont, Sequiota and Wilson’s Creek. Cherokee is the winner in the middle school category, and Parkview is the winner in the high school category. Study Alternative is the K-8 winner and Shady Dell ECC is early childhood center winner. These schools will be awarded traveling trophies this month.

“Each year, SPS looks forward to participating in the annual Food Fight event to help provide support for families facing hunger,” said Jean Grabeel, director of health services for Springfield Public Schools. “We are continually amazed by the generosity and compassion of our students, staff and families and we appreciate Ozarks Food Harvest for all it does to meet such a critical need.”



Since the competition began in 2011, SPS students and partners have provided more than 272,000 meals for children, families and seniors served by The Food Bank.

“This event is as important to us as it is to the schools,” said Bart Brown, president/CEO at Ozarks Food Harvest. “It teaches children that their donations can make a difference in the lives of the people that surround them every day.”



Area businesses and nonprofits partnered with schools to serve as collection points. Partners included 5 Pound Apparel, Air Services & All Service Plumbing, Battlefield UMC, Central Christian Church, City Music, Cox Health Martin Center, Culver's, Doubletree by Hilton, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Expedia, Great Southern Bank, Greene County Damaged Freight, Grizzly Industrial Inc., Incredible Pizza, King's Chapel, Little Caesars Pizza, Mercy Care Management, Mid-Missouri Bank, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Parkcrest Dental Group, Penmac Staffing, Springfield Sign, Superior Telecom Services, Systematic Savings Bank, Vital Farms - Egg Central Station and Wyndham Destinations.

Highway Patrol Arrests February 20-21

Jose A. Valdez, 19, Noel, driving while intoxicated (drugs)

William R. Hall, 32, Neosho, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no driver's license, no seat belt

Christian R. Gilbert, 23, Branson, felony leaving the scene of an accident

Cassandra D. Morales, 25, Albuquerque, New Mexico, felony possession of a controlled substance-marijuana, driving while suspended

Springfield Public Schools, Boys & Girls Clubs reach agreement for programs for Williams Elementary

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield will expand their partnership when the renovation and expansion of Williams Elementary is complete in August 2021.

The new facility, one of seven major projects funded by Proposition S, will include dedicated space for before- and after-school programming. A portion of the construction costs will be funded by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield.

"Collaboration to meet the needs of our students is critically important in public education," said Dr. John Jungmann, superintendent of Springfield Public Schools. 

"The Williams Elementary project is exciting for many reasons. A new, improved facility creates a more equitable and accessible learning environment. We will also have more room for an expansion of early childhood education and a robust partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs helps ensure that our students and families have the support they need to learn and grow."

Boys & Girls Clubs has already begun a capital campaign to invest in the dedicated space. Similar in design to the Boys and Girls Clubs Sertoma Unit at Sherwood Elementary, the program will serve an anticipated 200 children daily. 

A Memorandum of Understanding is in development and will be presented to both the Board of Education and the Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors for consideration and approval.

"This project is necessary, exciting and truly in line with our organization's goals," said Brandy Harris, chief executive officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield. 

"By collaborating with Springfield Public Schools, we are able to more holistically serve children and their families. We are confident that this aligned partnership mutually benefits each entity."

Springfield High School students qualify for FBLA State Leadership Conference

(From Springfield Public Schools)

On Feb. 4, all Springfield Public Schools high schools participated in Future Business Leaders of America's district competition.

More than 140 SPS FBLA members competed at the District Leadership Conference, with 95 members qualifying for student level competition.

"FBLA is a student organization focused on career exploration, civic service, economic education and technical skill advancement," said Katie Kensinger, coordinator of college and career readiness.

"FBLA prepares students for careers in business and business-related fields, while also helping students develop life skills needed to be capable and contributing citizens."

All five high schools had students who qualified for state level competition. The FBLA State Leadership Conference will be held April 19-21 in Springfield.

Autopsy planned for woman killed in Republic mobile home fire

Firefighters battling a blaze at the Alpine Village Mobile Home Park in Republic Wednesday night found the body of a woman.

The mobile home was destroyed by the blaze, which could be seen for miles. Her husband was able to escape.

The Greene County Sheriff's Office says the name of the victim will not be released until after an autopsy is conducted.

(KOLR screenshot)

Springfield mayor proclaims February 23 as Robert Spence Day, honoring late Evangel president

(From the City of Springfield)

Mayor Ken McClure will proclaim Feb. 23, 2020 an official day of mourning in the City of Springfield, to memorialize the life and death of Dr. Robert Spence. Spence died Feb. 19 and will be laid to rest Feb. 23.

Spence was president emeritus of Evangel University, where he served for more than 40 years. 

Spence was known as a community icon and and served as trusted counselor and goodwill ambassador for the community at large.

McClure asks that citizens take a moment to reflect upon the characteristics Dr. Spence embodied as a leader and mentor. He was known as a servant leader, always exhibiting service above self, which is the Rotarian motto he lived his life by.

Read the proclamation

Branson K-9 unit helps locate runaway child

(From the Branson Police Department)

Tuesday, our newest K9 Team, Cobra and his handler Officer Harvey, were called to assist on a child that had runaway approximately 2.5 hours earlier.

Together, the K9 team began a track on the child in a heavily wooded area and successfully located the child safely. 

Detectives and Patrol Officers also worked to find the lost child quickly.

Dogs can smell about 1000 times better than humans can! Both K9s in Branson are trained not only to track criminals, but also to safely find lost individuals.

Republic Police seeking to identify suspects in vehicle break-ins

(From the Republic Police Department)

Republic Police are attempting to identify the subjects and/or vehicle in these photographs. Officers are investigating stealing from several vehicles.

If you have any information please send us a private message or contact Sergeant Zach Richards at zrichards@republicmo.com.

Twenty questions for Springfield homicide detective Scott Hill

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Get an inside look at what it's like to be a Homicide Detective at the Springfield Police Department as we ask Detective Scott Hill 20 questions.

This video is part of a series of videos we will release on the 20th of each month.







Each video will follow an officer from a different unit to give the viewer a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to work for SPD.

Keep an eye out for our March 20th video featuring K9 Officer Laura Kitta and find out more info about working for SPD by visiting GOSPD.com!

Twenty-one indicted in Springfield-area heroin/fentonyl trafficking conspiracies

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

Additional charges and more defendants have been added to two federal indictments that now charge a total of 21 defendants for their roles in separate conspiracies to distribute heroin and fentanyl in the Springfield, Missouri, area, resulting in the overdose deaths of at least two people.

Most of the defendants were arrested in a coordinated law enforcement sweep in November 2019 and originally charged in a series of federal criminal complaints, which were followed up by initial indictments in December 2019.

Among the defendants who were arrested and charged in November and December 2019, 19 defendants along with two new defendants were charged in two separate superseding indictments this week (six other defendants have been indicted in separate, but related, cases).

According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration and local law enforcement partners launched an investigation into the drug-trafficking organization in June 2019. Affidavits cite numerous undercover and controlled drug purchases, as well as seizures of heroin, fentanyl, and large amounts of cash. Heroin and fentanyl, the affidavits say, were sold to Springfield residents by suppliers in Chicago, Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri.

Two additional defendants were charged in one of the two separate, but related, superseding indictments returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield on Tuesday, Feb. 18, for a total of 21 defendants in those two cases. The superseding indictments also include additional charges against several defendants related to drug trafficking and illegally possessing firearms, including a new charge in each of the two cases related to overdose deaths that resulted from fentanyl trafficking.

Sheron Loggins, also known as “Bane,” 47, of Florissant, Missouri; Jerry Bedell, also known as “d’Andre,” 29, his father, Jerry Wheeler, also known as “Love,” 44, his significant other, Bethany Rice, 29, all of Springfield, Missouri, and his mother, Nichole Bedell, 48, of Nixa, Missouri; and Delante Worsham, 35, Crystal J. Hill, 23, William Leath, also known as “Chill,” 44, Marquise Martin, 29, Robin Roberts, 50, and Laurel J. Lindsey, also known as “Mama,” 47, all of Springfield, were among those charged in November and December 2019. They, along with additional defendants Solomon Hodges, also known as “Little Daddy,” 60, and Cordaroe D. Sims, 33, all of Springfield, were charged in a 30-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.

Additionally, Worsham, Hill, and Hodges are charged together in one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl that caused the death of another person (who is not identified in court documents) and one count of distributing fentanyl on or about Sept. 23, 2018, that caused the death of this person.

In a separate but related case, Derrick E. Dailey, also known as “Cuzzo,” 34, William C. Farisse, also known as “Wack,” 33, Roderick L. Stewart, 35, Antwanae L. Morgan, 29, Robert D. Everette, 40, and Dominique Glosson, 26, all of Springfield, were among those charged in November and December 2019. All six are now named in a 16-count superseding indictment, which includes additional charges, returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.

Additionally, Farisse and Everett also are charged together in one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, the use of which caused the death of another person (who is not identified in court documents), and one count of distributing fentanyl on or about Oct. 17, 2019, which caused the death of this person.

USA v. Loggins, et al

The federal indictment charges each of the 15 defendants with participating in a conspiracy to distribute a kilogram or more of heroin and/or 400 grams or more of fentanyl in Christian and Greene counties from Sept. 23, 2018, to Nov. 14, 2019.

In addition to the conspiracy, Crawford is charged with three counts of possessing heroin or fentanyl with the intent to distribute, two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Crawford allegedly possessed an Armscor of the Philippines 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Dec. 3, 2018, and a Lorcin .25-caliber semi-automatic pistol on Jan. 15, 2019.

Leath is also charged with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking crimes, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Leath allegedly possessed an RG .25-caliber semi-automatic pistol and a Ruger .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol on Dec. 14, 2018, and a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic pistol on May 22, 2019.

Martin is also charged with two counts related to distributing fentanyl. Worsham, Sims, and Lindsey are each also charged with one count of possessing heroin and/or fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

Hodges is also charged with one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school. Hodges is also charged with one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug-trafficking crimes, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hodges allegedly possessed a Kel-Tec .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol on June 4, 2019.

Bedell is also charged with two counts of distributing heroin and/or fentanyl, one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking crimes, and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Bedell allegedly possessed a .223-caliber semi-automatic pistol without a serial number, a Springfield Armory .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Ruger .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol on Sept. 12, 2019.

Wheeler is also charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking crimes and being a felon in possession of firearms. Wheeler allegedly possessed a Sig Sauer .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol, an Izhmash .308-caliber semi-automatic rifle, and a Hi-Point 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Nov. 14, 2019.

Hill is also charged with attempting to escape from the custody of a DEA agent after being arrested.

USA v. Dailey, et al

Each of the six defendants were charged with participating in a conspiracy to distribute a kilogram or more of heroin and/or 400 grams or more of fentanyl in Greene County from Mar. 27, 2018, to Nov. 14, 2019.

In addition to the drug-trafficking conspiracies, Farisse is charged with three counts of distributing heroin and/or fentanyl, two counts of possessing heroin and/or fentanyl with the intent to distribute, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Farisse allegedly was in possession of a Ruger .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol on Nov. 14, 2019.

Glosson is also charged with one count of possessing heroin with the intent to distribute, one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and two counts of being an unlawful user of controlled substances (heroin) in possession of firearms. Glosson was allegedly in possession of a Springfield 9mm semi-automatic pistol and an SCCY 9mm semi-automatic pistol on March 7, 2019. Glosson was allegedly in possession of a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Oct. 23, 2019.

Stewart is also charged with one count of distributing heroin and/or fentanyl.

Morgan is also charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Morgan allegedly possessed an SCCY 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Nov. 14, 2019.

The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require the defendants to forfeit to the government any property derived from the proceeds of the alleged drug-trafficking conspiracy, including $2,200 seized by law enforcement from Glosson’s residence on March 7, 2019; $11,266 seized by law enforcement from a vehicle occupied by Dailey and Morgan on Nov. 14, 2019; $5,214 seized by law enforcement from Farisse’s hotel room on Nov. 14, 2019; and $4,400 belonging to Dailey, which was seized by law enforcement during the search of a residence on Nov. 27, 2019.

The charges contained in these indictments 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.

These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Josephine L. Stockard and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Keller. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Springfield, Missouri, Police Department; the Greene County, Missouri, Sheriff’s Department; the Phelps County, Missouri, Sheriff’s Department; the Bourbon, Missouri, Police Department; and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.