Highway Patrol Arrests May 30-31

Dontez M. Jenkins, 38, Buffalo, felony driving while intoxicated, driving while suspended

Juliana Leal, 27, Blue Springs, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated

Kyle H. Winder, 34, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no valid license, no insurance








Shyianne K. Davis, 22, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no seat belt

Kierrah D. Hicks, 19, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Kelsie M. Williams, 22, Springfield, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no valid license, no insurance, failure to display valid plates

Jonathan Sosa, 25, Kansas City, felony possession of a controlled substance-marijuana, speeding

Stina Darra, 21, Neosho, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving, leaving the scene of a crash, supplying alcohol to a minor

I-44 road sign replacement planned in Greene, Lawrence, Webster counties

(From MODOT)

Road Sign Replacement Project Planned for I-44 in Five Southwest Missouri Counties Beginning the Week of July 6

Drivers can expect partial ramp closures, shoulder work and possible traffic delays when a road sign replacement project along I-44 in five (5) southwest Missouri counties, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews will install new and more reflective “Do Not Enter,” “Wrong Way,” “Yield,” “Stop” and “One Way” signs to replace the current signs at various I-44 interchanges between the Missouri/Oklahoma state line and Marshfield. The new signs are being installed to comply with federal standards.

Here’s a look the project:

I-44 interchanges at Jasper County:

U.S. 166/U.S. 140 in Joplin (mile marker 1)
Missouri Route 43 (Coyote Road) in Joplin (mile marker 3)
Loop 44 / Missouri Route 86 (Hearnes Boulevard) in Joplin (mile marker 6)
Loop 49 (Rangeline Road) in Joplin (mile marker 8)

I-44 interchanges at Newton County:

Prigmor Avenue in Duenweg (mile marker 13)
Newton County Road 100 (mile marker 22)
Missouri Route 37 (mile marker 26)
Loop 44 (High Street) and Newton County Route U in Sarcoxie (mile marker 29)

I-44 interchanges at Lawrence County:

Lawrence County Road 1010 (mile marker 33)
Missouri Route 97 (mile marker 38)
Loop 44 / Lawrence County Route H (mile marker 44)
Missouri Route 39 / Missouri Route 265 in Mount Vernon (mile marker 46)
Missouri Route 174 (mile marker 49)
Missouri Route 96 (mile marker 57)
Lawrence County Route Z and O in Halltown (mile marker 58)

I-44 interchanges at Greene County:

Greene County Route K and PP (mile marker 61)
Greene County Route T and N (mile marker 67)
Greene County Route B and MM (mile marker 70)
Missouri Route 266 and Loop 44 (Chestnut Expressway) in Springfield (mile marker 72)

U.S. Route 160 in Springfield (mile marker 75)
Missouri Route 13 in Springfield (mile marker 77)
Greene County Route H (Glenstone Ave) in Springfield (mile marker 80)
Missouri Route 744 (North Mulroy Road) in Springfield (mile marker 84)
Missouri Route 125 in Strafford (mile marker 88)

I-44 interchanges at Webster County:

Webster County Route B (mile marker 96)
Missouri Route 38 (Spur Dr) in Marshfield (mile marker 100)
Sparkle Brooke Rd and Sampson Rd (mile marker 107)

Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the work zones.

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

Project background:

Prime contractor: James H. Drew Corporation, Sedalia
Complete date: November 1, 2020 (However, contractor crews plan to have the project completed by the end of August 2020.)
Total project cost: $304,373

Sewer construction to close portion of Trafficway Street

(From the City of Springfield)

Construction of a sewer main for a new apartment building at 505 E. St. Louis Street in downtown Springfield will require a two-week closure of Trafficway Street immediately north of the construction site beginning 7 a.m. Monday, June 1.

Trafficway will remain open to local traffic and 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.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 29-30

Daisy P. Bell, 23, Fayetteville, Arkansas, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving, no driver's license, no valid plates, no insurance, no seat belt

Andrew J. Schweigert, 19, Carthage, driving while intoxicated, failure to yield

John D. Rives, 41, Blackwell, Oklahoma, felony Juneau County, Wisconsin warrant for sex offender registry violation

Patrick J. Wiley, 49, Benton, Arkansas, driving while intoxicated, speeding

Sean M. Dietz, 32, Kansas City, driving while intoxicated








Hannah L. Correll, 28, Springfield, failure to drive in right lane, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Amber C. Meza, 44, Oronogo, driving while intoxicated, no insurance, improper helmet

Raymond L. Stapp, 49, Hartville, felony driving while intoxicated, felony driving while revoked, careless and imprudent driving, no insurance, no seat belt

Crystal N. Arehart, 33, Joplin, felony driving while intoxicated, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, careless and imprudent driving

Kevin J. Mueller, 35, Kansas City, felony drugs-marijuana and THC wax, speeding

Thomas C. Buxton, 19, Republic, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Robert J. Holder, 36, Seneca, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving

Highway Patrol Arrests May 28-29

Donna L. Shepard, 32, Joplin, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana, no valid license, no insurance

Robert E. Blackburn, 50, Branson, driving while intoxicated

Austin M. Hash-Baxter, 21, Verona, felony Barry County warrant for drugs

Dustin R. Nash, 33, Verona, felony leaving the scene of a crash, driving while revoked, careless and imprudent driving








Jesse H. Frye, 70, Fordland, felony failure to register as a sex offender (two counts), felony no valid license

Lawrence H. Sumpter, 59, Springfield, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, felony possession of a controlled substance-ecstasy, possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance, no valid plates

Justin A. Keen, 25, Exeter, Pineville warrant for moving traffic violation, Barry County warrant for moving traffic violation, Anderson Police Department warrant for narcotic equipment possession, driving while intoxicated (drugs)

Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission to meet

(From the City of Springfield)

The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet for its regularly scheduled meeting June 4 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held electronically via teleconferencing due to City offices being closed to the public at this time.

Citizens wishing to attend or speak at the meeting are required to contact the Department of Planning & Development by 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 2. This can be done via an online form, by calling 417-864-1611. The agenda is located here.

Citizens who have signed up with the Planning and Development office will be required to view and participate in the meeting electronically via teleconferencing in Room 108 of the first floor of Historic City Hall. Physical distancing will be maintained.

Citizens who have experienced any of the following, will not be allowed inside Historic City Hall:
Flu-like symptoms
Respiratory illness (cough, difficulty breathing)
Fever
Traveled in the past 14 days to a COVID-19 affected area
Been exposed to someone who has traveled to an affected area
Been exposed to someone who has been evaluated for the illness or has confirmed illness.

Citizens who do not wish to attend the meeting but wish to submit comments may do so by emailing them to zoning@springfieldmo.gov and their comments will be included in the meeting minutes.

The meeting can be viewed on Mediacom cable channels 15.1, 22 and 80 and AT&T Uverse channel 99, or viewed online at Cityview.springfieldmo.gov/livestream. The meetings are also livestreamed on the @CityofSgf Facebook page.

Costco considering membership warehouse retail store in Springfield, 125 to 200 jobs possible

(From the City of Springfield)

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure is pleased to announce Costco Wholesale Corporation is considering a membership warehouse retail store in east Springfield. Costco operates membership warehouses that carry quality brand name merchandise at discounted prices.

Costco warehouses offer a large category of selections under a single roof. Categories range from groceries and appliances to optical and travel services. Members can also shop for private label Kirkland Signature products, including juice, coffee, cookies, housewares, luggage, clothing and detergent.

“I’m pleased to announce and also confirm the rumors are true that Costco Wholesale Corporation is considering a membership warehouse retail store in Springfield,” said Mayor Ken McClure. “We are so pleased to welcome Costco to our community. We know that there has been a strong interest from our citizens for this store and, in fact, that some Springfieldians drive the 150 miles to get to the nearest Costco. I am positive that Costco will expand our retail base, bringing new customers to Springfield who will surely shop elsewhere while they’re in town. 

"In addition, Costco has a reputation for being a quality employer, offering some of the highest retail wages and a robust benefits package.”

Costco expects to hire a minimum of 125 people in Springfield – a figure that could rise well above 200 because the company’s model is for employment to grow as sales grow. The average hourly rate of pay for Costco employees is $25.50. A full-time cashier’s annual salary after five years is $52,944. Costco also provides a benefit package including medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, mental health, life insurance, disability, long-term care, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, employee stock purchase program, 11 holidays per year, college student retention program and free Costco membership with 2% reward and 401(k). Part-time employees working more than 23 hours per week receive core medical, dental and vacation benefits after six months.

Costco is committed to giving back to the communities in which they do business, donating 1% of pre-tax profit to local charitable organizations. The company also participates in many philanthropic programs corporately and at the warehouse level and employees are given several volunteer opportunities and encouraged to be involved in the community.

On June 4 the Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission will consider a preliminary plat for Kirkland Commons as well as a Final Development Plan for Planned Development 298, the first steps in the development of the Costco site, generally located south of Chestnut Expressway at Eastgate and Hwy 65. In order to provide an adequate building site for Costco, Eastgate south of Chestnut Expressway will need to be relocated and other street and stormwater improvements are required.

At its June 1 meeting, City Council will consider an ordinance authorizing an access and infrastructure agreement for the required public improvements, which are anticipated to cost $4.8 million. Costco will pay for these improvements and the City will reimburse Costco using a portion of the local sales taxes generated by their facility. This agreement will reimburse Costco using one-half of the 1-cent general sales tax, 1/4-cent capital improvements sales tax and 1/8-cent transportation sales tax. The agreement has a term not to exceed 15 years, however, it is anticipated that reimbursement will occur earlier. In any event, any expenditures not reimbursed at the end of 15 years will be the developer’s responsibility. The City will pay the developer interest on the unpaid balance at a rate of 5%.

If things progress as planned, Costco would break ground in spring 2021 and open in fall 2021.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 26-27

Erica L. Wilson 34, Aurora, felony possession of a controlled substance-heroin, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no insurance

Walter J. Tucker, 65, Osceola, driving while intoxicated

Jacquelin K. Cupp, 44, Galena, Kansas, driving while intoxicated, speeding

Springfield resident who entered U. S. illegally seven times sentenced for meth trafficking

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

A Mexican national who has illegally entered the United States at least seven times was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in the Kansas City, Missouri, area and in the Springfield, Missouri, area.

Armando Quintana-Galaz, 37, a citizen of Mexico residing in Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 16 years and eight months in federal prison without parole.

On Sept. 12, 2019, Quintana-Galaz pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He also pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime and to illegally reentering the United States after having been deported.

Quintana-Galaz had been deported from the United States six times before being arrested on Nov. 2, 2017, in Springfield. At that time, he was again illegally present in the United States. When law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Quintana-Galaz’s residence on that day, they found approximately 3.159 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in a hamper in the master bathroom and approximately 189 grams of pure methamphetamine in a dresser in the master bedroom. They found a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a Norinco SKS 762-caliber rifle, various ammunition, a bag that contained approximately four grams of cocaine, and six cell phones. They also found a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun in his Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Officers also found $40,020 in a dresser in the master bedroom, $6,295 in the pocket of his pants that were on a TV stand, and $293 in a suitcase in the master bathroom closet. According to his plea agreement, the $46,608 seized from Quintana-Galaz’s residence would convert to more than 2.6 kilograms (2,642.6 grams) of methamphetamine.

Quintana-Galaz admitted that he sold and distributed methamphetamine, that he received and transported illicit drug proceeds as part of his involvement in the conspiracy, and that he possessed several firearms found at his residence, at least in part, to further his involvement in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. His plea agreement cites several instances in which Quintana-Galaz was involved in the distribution of methamphetamine to cooperating law enforcement sources.

Quintana-Galaz is the fourth defendant in this case to be sentenced. Two more defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

Springfield man becomes fifth person to plead guilty in meth conspiracy

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

A Springfield, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to his role in a conspiracy that distributed at least 15 kilograms of methamphetamine in a three-county area.

Jason L. Thomas, 42, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

By pleading guilty today, Thomas admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Cass, Greene, and Miller counties from May 14, 2017, to June 20, 2018. Thomas received methamphetamine to distribute from co-conspirator Christina E. Gauger, 39, of Springfield.

According to today’s plea agreement, Gauger was obtaining at least one pound of methamphetamine for distribution every week of the conspiracy. Investigators seized approximately 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the investigation.

Thomas is the fifth defendant to plead guilty in this case. Gauger, Robin L. Self, 37, and Jordan H. Williamson, 31, both of Springfield, have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Jacob B. Piatchek, 26, of Springfield, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four years in federal prison without parole.

Under federal statutes, Thomas 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. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert and Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron Black. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Springfield mayor issues video, shares thoughts as city enters second phase of reopening

(From the City of Springfield)

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure shared a video message to Springfieldians as the community starts its first full week under a Road to Recovery Order, Phase 2.

This second phase in the Road to Recovery Plan lightens restrictions, allowing more community activity, across multiple sectors. 

For information about the plan, visit Springfieldmo.gov.

A message from Mayor Ken McClure from SGF CityView on Vimeo.

Westbound I-44 to close at Route H near Mount Vernon

(From MODOT)

TRAFFIC ALERT: Westbound I-44 CLOSED at Rt H Near Mt Vernon May 28, for Guardrail Repair

Where: Westbound I-44 CLOSED at Lawrence County Route H (Mile Marker 44) west of Mt. Vernon

When: 9-11 p.m., Thursday, May 28

What: Contractor crews repairing guardrail damaged as result of a crash on May 22

Traffic Impacts

-Westbound I-44 detour: Route H to I-44 south outer road west to Missouri Route 97 back to westbound I-44

-No impact to eastbound I-44 traffic

-Signs and message boards will alert drivers to the closure

Details: Work is taking place in an area where I-44 is reduced to one lane in each direction as part of I-44 Project Bridge Rebuild. Westbound I-44 must be closed to complete the repairs. For more information about the project to replace or rehabilitate 13 bridges on I-44 between Sarcoxie and Halltown, click here.

(Weather and/or scheduling conflicts could alter the work schedule)

Springfield woman pleads guilty to meth conspiracy

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

A Springfield, Missouri, woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to her role in a conspiracy that distributed at least 4.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in Laclede County, Missouri.

Deidra C. Mathews, 44, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Laclede County from Nov. 28, 2018, to May 21, 2019. She remains in federal custody pending a sentencing hearing.

By pleading guilty today, Mathews admitted she distributed approximately nine pounds of methamphetamine between February and April 2019. She received one pound of methamphetamine each week from a co-conspirator, for which she paid $4,500. The overall conspiracy involved the distribution of at least 4.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine.

Mathews was arrested on April 22, 2019, when a Laclede County sheriff’s deputy stopped a vehicle in which she was a passenger. Co-defendant Rondell D. Hodges, 36, of Lebanon, Missouri, was driving a Chevrolet Malibu with expired license plates on Highway OO near Lebanon.

Hodges was unable to produce proof of insurance or a driver’s license. Both Mathews and Hodges had warrants for their arrest. Mathews attempted to run from the deputy, but was apprehended after a short foot chase. Deputies found multiple bags of methamphetamine, totaling 501.46 grams, that had been thrown from the vehicle.

Hodges has also pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.

Under federal statutes, Mathews and Hodges each are 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. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Keller and Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron Black. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group, the Laclede County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the Lebanon, Mo., Police Department.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 25-26

Kyle W. Dake, 31, Springfield, felony driving while suspended, speeding, no seat belt

Gloria A. Gonzalez, 32, Waukegan, Illinois, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia








Isac Ortega, 29, Maywood, Illinois, felony possession of a controlled substance-marijuana, speeding

Keith J. Borgmann, 58, St. Charles, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated

Marionville man charged with murdering woman found in vehicle, autopsy scheduled

(From the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office)

The Lawrence County Prosecutor has filed charges in a homicide investigation in Lawrence County.

Forty-year-old James Pride of Marionville has been charged with 2nd Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action as a result of a homicide investigation that started when deputies were called to a residence north of Marionville regarding a deceased female on Sunday May 24, 2020 at approximately 1:30 p.m.

Deputies arrived on scene and located the female in a vehicle on the property. Pride was also located on the property and taken into custody without incident.

The female has not yet been identified as the Sheriff's Office is trying to locate family members.

An autopsy has been scheduled for this afternoon to determine the cause of death.

Pride is currently being held at the Lawrence County Jail on no bond pending his first court appearance.

Springfield Mercy Hospital lays off 696 employees, 126 permanently

Mercy Hospital in Springfield began the process of laying off 696 employees May 22, according to a WARN notice filed with the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development.

The layoffs will be permanent for the 115 employees who were given notice Friday and for 11 doctors who will be sent packing August 20, according to the notice.

We were unable to provide more notice of this action because these circumstances were not reasonably foreseeable until recently when the full impact of COVID-19 became clear. We are providing as much notice as is practicable under the circumstances and given the rapid pace at which this situation has developed.

Forsyth man, three Harrison residents injured in head-on collision on 160

Four people were injured in a three-vehicle collision 3:45 p.m. Monday on U. S. 160, three miles west of Forsyth.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2009 Nissan Altima driven by Willow N. Waggoner, 21, Harrison, Arkansas, crossed the center line and struck a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica driven by Kevin W. Wheeler, 45, Forsyth.







A passenger in the Waggoner vehicle, Lucas Lehman, 17, Harrison was treated for serious injuried at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Waggoner and Wheeler were treated for moderate injuries and another passenger in the Waggoner vehicle, Rainy Waggoner, 21, Harrison, for minor injuries a Cox South.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 24-25

Paige J. Shepherd, 19, Joplin, misdemeanor Joplin Police Department warrant for larceny, no driver's license, no seat belt

Robert H. Taylor, 26, Neosho, misdemeanor Newton County traffic warrant, no seat belt

Joseph T. Buttrey, 22, Goodman, felony possession of dangerous drugs- THC wax, possession of drug paraphernalia

Keith A. Stephenson, 17, Joplin, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia








Joshua T. Holdener, 36, Sparta, felony Nebraska warrant for burglary, misdemeanor leaving the scene of an accident

Douglas F. Havens, 59, Rosehill, Kansas, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving

Stephen J. Clark, 18, Manhattan, Kansas, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Micha J. Sykes, 44, Grove, Oklahoma, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, driving while intoxicated (drugs), unlawful use of drug paraphernalia

Highway Patrol Arrests May 23-24

Mihir R. Gandhi, 41, Joplin, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated

Dalton A. Williams, 23, Sparta, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, no navigation lights

Donald W. Franklin, 46, Kansas City, felony driving while intoxicated, felony probation and parole department warrant for driving while intoxicated, driving while revoked, speeding

Brian J. Johnston, 34, Harrisonville, boating while intoxicated, failure to use the highest degree of care for watercraft, insufficient personal flotation devices








Tristan R. Griffin, 24, Marshfield, felony possession of a controlled substance-alprazolam, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, no valid license, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident, no insurance, no seat belt

Wyatt E. Keever, 17, Aurora, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding (91 in a 65)

Nathaniel B. Craft, 21, Centerton, Arkansas, driving while intoxicated, failure to yield to emergency vehicle

Savannah M. Shannon, 20, Springfield, speeding, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana

Rockaway Beach man drowns in Lake Taneycomo

A Rockaway Beach man drowned Friday on Lake Taneycomo at 200 W. Beach Boulevard, Rockway Beach.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Frankie O. Mills, 50, Rockaway Beach, fell from the boat dock into Lake Taneycomo.







Taney County Deputy Coroner pronounced Mills dead at the scene at 11:15 p.m.

The drowning was the first that was not boat-related this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 22-23

Anthony N. Merritt, 30, Cassville, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding, no valid license

Reison Simion, 26, Neosho, Carthage Police Department warrants for driving while revoked and leaving the scene of a crash, speeding, driving while revoked, no insurance

Austin E. Fletcher, 20, Wentworth, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident, no insurance

William D. Kenyon, 30, Springfield, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, no seat belt, no insurance








Candi J. Maass, 41, Merriam Woods, felony resisting arrest, six felony counts of possession of a controlled substance- methamphetamine, gummies, tramadolhydrochloride, clanazapam, hydrocodone and ecstasy, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated (drugs)

Ervyn J. Gonzalez, 22, Seneca, misdemeanor possession of marijuana

Matthew G. Davis, 33, Bolivar, felony driving while intoxicated, no valid license, no insurance, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident

Ashley C. Summers, 49, Reeds Spring, felony unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia

Bridgette L. Varner, 32, Boone, Arkansas, felony Arkansas Board of Parole warrant for unlawful use/access with a computer

Kyle T. Jackson, 24, Crane, driving while intoxicated, failure to yield

Highway Patrol Arrests May 21-22

Troy M. McClain, 42, Powell, felony Arkansas probation and parole warrant

Mark W. Cantwell, 19, Springfield, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of liquor by a minor, misdemeanor Christian County warrant for no seat belt, no insurance, no seat belt

Cheyenne S. Treichel, 18, Monett, felony possession of methamphetamine, misdemeanor Lawrence County warrant for failure to appear on endangering the welfare of a child

Austin J. Evans, 23, Seneca, driving while intoxicated (drugs), no insurance








Brian T. Torgerson, 50, Theodosia, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding

Jessica L. Hayes, 22, Branson, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Sergio F. Villa, 20, Independence, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Kenneth W. Johnson, 28, Carthage, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, speeding








Erika F. Ramirez, 21, Bethel Heights, Arkansas, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, speeding

Darcy B. Curtis, 44, Taneyville, driving while intoxicated (drugs)

Rusty A. Williams, 30, Springfield, felony possession of a controlled substance-  clonazepam, driving while intoxicated (drugs)

Amber N. Maroe, 34, Marshfield, Webster County misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear on traffic warrants and failure to register vehicle

Southwest Honkys gang member pleads guilty to meth conspiracy

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

A Fair Grove, Missouri, man who is a member of the Southwest Honkys violent prison gang pleaded guilty in federal court today to his role in a drug-trafficking conspiracy in which investigators intercepted a shipment of nearly 9.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.

William F. Jones, 45, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Christian County, Greene County, and Polk County, Missouri, from Dec. 21, 2016, to Oct. 15, 2017.

According to today’s plea agreement, Jones was identified as a mid-level member of the Southwest Honkys prison gang who had declined a leadership role.

Jones, under the surveillance of law enforcement, drove to the Kansas City, Missouri area on Oct. 11, 2017, and checked into an Independence, Missouri, hotel. A few days later, co-defendant Justin L. Rhoads, 32, of Lebanon, Missouri, met Jones in the hotel’s parking lot. They put a large duffel bag in the cab of Rhoads’s pickup truck, and he left the parking lot. Rhoads was later stopped by a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper on Missouri Highway 13, just south of Humansville, Missouri. The trooper searched Rhoads’s vehicle and found 10 Ziploc-style plastic bags inside the duffel bag that contained a total of approximately 9,439 grams of methamphetamine, which was determined to be at least 93 percent pure.

Rhoads pleaded guilty on Dec. 16, 2019, to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy.

Under federal statutes, Jones and Rhoads each are 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. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. 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 Josephine L. Stockard. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Springfield-Greene County Health Department reveals possible COVID-19 exposures at Willard Dollar General, Apple Mart

(From the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department is notifying the public of a potential exposure from a COVID-19 positive individual.

Prior to being diagnosed, one of our recent positive cases visited Dollar General at 401 S. Miller Rd. in Willard on Friday, May 15 around 10 a.m. for about one hour.

Also on Friday, May 15, our same case visited Apple Market at 500 Miller Rd. in Willard around 11 a.m. for about one hour. The individual was wearing a face covering while visiting both stores and was not showing symptoms at the time of the potential exposure. The person was, however, believed to within the timeframe of being potentially infectious.

As we continue to take steps to reopen our community, it is even more important for all of us to interact with our environment carefully. This latest case highlights the value of wearing a face covering in a public setting, such as a grocery store, to minimize the spread of COVID-19. If someone is sick, they should stay home.

COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It spreads between people who are in close contact with one another.

Anyone who was at either of these locations on these dates is at low risk for contracting COVID-19, but should monitor for symptoms. There is no need to self-quarantine or isolate unless symptoms develop. 

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
cough,
fever,
shortness of breath,
chills,
muscle pain,
sore throat
and new loss of taste or smell.

If symptoms do develop, seek medical attention.

If you are sick, you can use virtual care options to seek medical treatment without exposing others to illness. Links are available at health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus

For more information about COVID-19, visit our website at health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus, email coronavirus@springfieldmo.gov, or call 417-874-1211.

City of Springfield seeking public input on CARES Act funding recommendations

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield’s draft Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Action Plan (AAP) Amendments and Disaster/Emergency Declaration Amendments to the Citizens Participation Plan (CPP), which contain the funding recommendations for the nearly $1 million in U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds, are available for public review and comment through 5 p.m. May 29.

An online survey was conducted May 1-7 to collect public input about the local economic impact of COVID-19 to help develop the City’s funding recommendations. The Citizens Advisory Committee for Community Development then held a public hearing on May 19 on the recommendations.

Written comments on both sets of amendments may be sent to batchley@springfieldmo.gov. All written comments received by noon on May 29 will be forwarded to City Council.

City Council will hold a first reading, public hearing, and possible vote on both sets of amendments at its June 1 meeting, which will take place virtually via teleconferencing technology at 6:30 p.m. at City Council Chambers, Historic City Hall, 830 Boonville Avenue. Citizens wishing to sign up to speak at the City Council meeting are required to contact the City Clerk’s office at 417-864-1443 by 5 p.m. Friday, May 29. The meeting will be live streamed at cityview.springfieldmo.gov/livestream and on Mediacom channels 15.1 and 80 and AT&T U-verse channel 99.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 20-21

Gage A. Bernard, 17, Reeds, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving, no seat belt

Xollie J. Wilson, 22, Pittsburg, Kansas, driving while intoxicated, no insurance, failed to drive on the right half of the roadway, no insurance








Uriy Y. Dudko, 22, Willow Springs, possession of marijuana, speeding

Winter S. Sparks, 21, Shawnee, Kansas, misdemeanor driving while intoxicated

Springfield issues restrictions as phase two of Road to Recovery begins Saturday

(From the City of Springfield)

Mayor Ken McClure and Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard announced a new order today lessening restrictions of business and community activities. The order is effective May 23-June 22, however, it will be reviewed prior to June 14, when it could change, if the City is ready to move into another phase.

The City’s Road to Recovery Plan document maps out the next few phases, based on data gathered throughout the phase.

View Mayor McClure’s Phase 2 Road to Recovery order.

View the PowerPoint presentation

The plan maps out the area’s next phases in reopening the local economy. The individual components and phases of the plan are subject to change based on local and national COVID-19 data as well as by measures tracked on the Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s COVID-19 Recovery Dashboard.

Phase 2 includes a 25% occupancy limitation for restaurants, bars, nightclubs, tap rooms, entertainment venues and museums based on square footage of the area. Be sure to read the plan for specific guidance for each facility.

The formula is: (Square footage) / 30 x 25% = Occupancy limit.

Swimming pools are limited to 25% of the bather load of the pool. Playgrounds, parks and trails are open.

Noncontact sports activities are allowed with a 25% occupancy limitation based on the square footage of fixed seating in the spectator area. Noncontact sports practices are allowed with no more than 25 people coordinated in stable, separate groups. Essential retail establishments and businesses considered nonessential can operate with 25% occupancy if their square footage is less than 10,000 square feet. Essential retail establishments and businesses considered nonessential can operate with 10% occupancy if their square footage is more than 10,000 square feet.

Personal care services can operate with a 25% occupancy limitation based on square footage. The occupancy limitation includes employees, and masks are required on the part of the patron and the service provider if the distance between them during the service is less than 6 feet.

Gyms and fitness centers can operate with a 25% occupancy limitation based on square footage. Fitness classes are allowed with 25% of the occupancy limitation based on the square footage of the room being used.

Day cares can open with limitations of stable groups of no more than 25. Day camps can open if the primary role is child care with limitations of stable groups of 25. Private schools remain closed.

In-person religious services, weddings and funerals are allowed to operate with 25% of the occupancy limitation based on the square footage of the individual rooms and the facility.

Regarding public gatherings, special events of more than 50 people on City property or streets requiring a permit are not allowed.

All residents should encourage senior citizens and vulnerable populations should stay at home. Working from home, if possible, is also encouraged. Physical distancing, increased cleaning and hand hygiene are also encouraged. Wearing masks is encouraged during travel and monitoring upon return from non high-risk travel. Quarantine is encouraged upon return from high-risk travel.

The City will be under Phase 2 through June 22, but that may be shortened if the Mayor decided to amend or replace that order to move to Phase 3. The goal of the phased recovery plan is to reopen the community as quickly and safely as possible, while monitoring the spread of disease and taking action to keep the spread of disease to an acceptable level.

The Road to Recovery Plan is a “living” document that serves as a framework for Mayor Ken McClure’s future reopening orders. The plan allows community members and organizations to have a firmer understanding of what recovery looks like, when the spread of the disease is controlled and healthcare, public health and testing capabilities are strong.

Within this framework, community leaders will make decisions approximately every three weeks on whether the community is ready and prepared to take the step into the next phase or if it is prudent to remain in the current phase. Phases are fluid and based on dashboard indicators and state orders. To a large extent, the virus will dictate the timeline of recovery.

This dashboard covers five areas, including:

detailed case information, including total and daily cases based on a person’s onset of symptoms and active, deceased and resolved cases.

hospital capability, which is based on hospital staffing, supplies and space available to respond to COVID-19.

public health capability, which is based on the capability to conduct epidemiological interviews and contact tracing, and risk pertaining to unmitigated community exposure for COVID-19.

testing capability, which measures the estimated community testing capability for COVID-19. The index is based on the available testing and result turnaround time.

regional data information, which measures the estimated public health capability and testing capability for surrounding counties.

West Plains school employee charged with producing child pornography

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

An employee of the West Plains, Missouri, R-7 School District was charged in federal court today with soliciting children to send him sexually explicit photos and videos through Snapchat and Instagram.

Cody Ashton Ary, 29, of West Plains, was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Missouri, with one count of producing child pornography. Ary is employed with the West Plains R-7 School District as a paraprofessional and commonly assists with special need students.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Instagram initiated a CyberTip with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on Dec. 3, 2019, after Ary allegedly uploaded a sexually explicit video of an 8-to-10-year-old boy to his account.

Investigators found a total of 92 chat conversations between Ary and other Instagram users. 

According to the affidavit, Ary used the screen name “15anime_boy” and identified himself as a 15-year-old male to other users. He allegedly solicited sexually explicit videos and images from other users who identified to be minor males. 

Ary allegedly received dozens of images and videos of child pornography through his Instagram account. Ary asked the child victims to send him videos and images of them stripping, the affidavit says, in exchange for Ary providing Internet links to folders that contained child pornography.

Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Ary’s residence today, where he was arrested.

The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge 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 Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the West Plains, Mo., Police Department, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crime Task Force, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations.

Highway Patrol Arrests May 19-20

Dyan N. Miller, 36, Shell Knob, felony warrant for possession of amphetamines, misdemeanor possession of narcotics equipment

Jesse D. Weaver, 39, Branson, felony possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia

Kyle D. Gentry, 27, Reeds Spring, felony possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine, felony resisting arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while revoked, failure to display valid plates, speeding








Justin A. Baker, 30, Springfield, felony warrant for parole violation, misdemeanor Stone County warrant for failure to appear on domestic assault

Jaime A. Kintner, 43, Springfield, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no valid license

Dakoda W. Bertalotto, 30, Shell Knob, felony warrant from U. S. Marshals office in Denver, Colorado for failure to appear on vehicle theft, misdemeanor possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia

Fremont Avenue to close between Battlefield Road and Woodland Street

(From the City of Springfield)

Fremont Avenue will close overnight between Battlefield Road and Woodland Street beginning at 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 20 as construction begins for the Battlefield Road and Fremont Avenue Intersection and Roadway Improvement project. The road is expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Thursday morning.

Approved by voters in 2016, the project will involve the widening of Fremont Avenue to five lanes between Battlefield Road and Sunset Street. Improvements will also be made at the Battlefield Road and Fremont Avenue intersection, with traffic signal upgrades and additional turn lanes.

The overall goal of the project is to increase capacity and improve traffic flow in one of our busiest retail areas,” explains Public Works project manager Jonathan Peitz. 

“Widening Fremont north of Battlefield and providing an additional northbound lane is expected to help reduce the bottlenecks along Battlefield.”

Pedestrian improvements will include new Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalks along the east side of Fremont Avenue and a multi-use path on the west side. City Utilities will install new steel streetlight poles on the east side of Fremont Avenue in conjunction with the roadway project.

City Utilities completed preliminary electrical work in 2019, replacing deteriorating wood transmission poles with new steel poles.

Construction contractors have been working on locating utilities and relocating gas and water lines around Meador Park for the last few weeks.

The overnight closure is the first full closure of the roadway during the construction phase of the project.

“We’re hoping to limit full closures to night-time hours to impact traffic as little as possible,” says Peitz. “Motorists can still expect lane shifts and lane closures as construction progresses, but we hope to keep traffic moving and will maintain access to all businesses.”

Traffic impacts will be communicated as early as possible via public notice and social media. Digital message boards will be placed to communicate closure details to motorists.

The public can expect construction in the area to begin to ramp up in June with project completion expected in November. The estimated construction cost for this phase of the project is $3.1 million, funded through the City’s ¼-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax.

Springfield man pleads guilty to meth conspiracy

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

A Springfield, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to his role in a conspiracy that distributed at least 15 kilograms of methamphetamine in a three-county area.

Jordan H. Williamson, 31, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

By pleading guilty today, Williams admitted that he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Cass, Greene, and Miller counties from May 14, 2017, to June 20, 2018. Williamson received methamphetamine to distribute from co-conspirator Christina E. Gauger, 39, of Springfield.

According to today’s plea agreement, Gauger was obtaining at least one pound of methamphetamine for distribution every week of the conspiracy. Investigators seized approximately 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the investigation.

Williamson is the fourth defendant to plead guilty in this case. Gauger and Robin L. Self, 37, of Springfield, have pleaded guilty and await sentencing. Jacob B. Piatchek, 26, of Springfield, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four years in federal prison without parole.

Under federal statutes, Williamson 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. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron H. Black. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Brad Pitt sends congratulatory message to Missouri State University graduates

Former Springfield resident Brad Pitt, who recently won the Academy Award for best supporting actor for his performance in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, offered video congratulations to Missouri State University's graduates.

"Must be strange doing this in these trying times," Pitt said, "but know we're rooting for you. Our money's on you to make this world a better place and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors."

Pitt graduated from Kickapoo High School and attended the University of Missouri School of Journalism, though he left school to pursue an acting career two credits shy of graduation.

Traffic slowdowns, stops planned next week on I-44 west of Springfield

(From MODOT)

TRAFFIC ALERT: Traffic Slowdowns/Stops on I-44 West of Springfield Tuesday & Wednesday, May 26 & 27

What: I-44 traffic slowed and possibly stopped between Missouri Route 360 and Greene County Route PP/K west of Springfield for rock blasting

When: 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday, May 26 & 27

Traffic Impacts:

-Traffic on I-44 slowed or stopped for up to 15 minutes

-Traffic on Greene County Route T/N at I-44 and westbound Missouri Route 360-to-westbound I-44 ramp stopped for up to 15 minutes

-Missouri Highway Patrol troopers will slow traffic on I-44 with contractor crews stopping traffic on Greene County Route N/T at I-44

-Drivers urged to use caution and follow instructions from flaggers on the road

Details: Contractor crews blasting rock along I-44 west of the Greene County Route N/T interchange to lengthen interchange ramps. Work is part of larger project to resurface I-44 between Missouri Route 360 (Mile Marker 69) and Missouri Route 266/Chestnut Expressway (Mile Marker 72) and extend interchange ramps.

(Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule)

Judge orders Cassville teacher charged with sexually exploiting a minor held without bond

A Cassville High School business teacher charged with sexually exploiting a child will be held without bond while awaiting trial.

In his order, U. S. District Court Judge David P. Rush noted that Brandon Lane McCullough, 31, Branson, had acknowledged to investigators that he could not even recall how many underage girls he had sexually exploited over the past six years.

In the charge facing him now, the probable cause affidavit said McCullough, who is married and the father of two, blackmailed the girl after she sent him sexually explicit photos of herself over the KIK application and applied so much pressure that she attempted suicide.








Regarding potential danger to the community, the Court notes the nature of the instant offense. The Court notes that the current charge involves a child, sex offense, and use of a computer to facilitate the alleged offense (Sexual Exploitation of a Minor). 

The Court further notes safety concerns for the minor female victim. The evidence at the detention hearing established that the defendant received sexually explicit images of the minor victim using Kik through extortion. 

Defendant became more aggressive, demanding more images and videos. 

At one point, the minor victim informed the defendant that she was considering killing herself because she felt trapped, to which the defendant responded, “That’s ur choice.” 

When arrested on the underlying offense the defendant told law enforcement that he could not recall how many minors he had chatted with and how often he had done it because he engaged in the conduct so frequently. 

The Court notes safety concerns for not only the minor victim, but for the community as well. Based on all the foregoing, the Court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant is a danger to the community.

McCullough was scheduled to begin a new teaching job at Hollister High School this fall.

Earlier post- Cassville High School teacher charged with sexual exploitation of a child after 14-year-old attempts suicide