Two Springfield residents shot to death, infant left alone at crime scene

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Dec. 28, 2022, at approximately 10:15 p.m., the Springfield Police Department was dispatched to 2203 N. Link to check the well-being of a male that was suffering from injuries to his face.

When officers arrived, they located a male in the driveway who had been shot several times. The male was transported to a local hospital for treatment but succumbed to his injuries. 

While on scene, officers received information that the male was associated with 2209 N. Link. When they approached that residence, they noticed an infant child inside who appeared to be alone. Officers entered the home to check the well-being of the child and while inside the residence they discovered a deceased female with multiple gunshot wounds. The infant child was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries and released to a family member.

The deceased male was identified as Deundrea Woods, 30. The deceased female was identified as Mackenzie Lashley-Childers, 25. The victims are from Springfield and both of their families have been notified.

 

A suspect has not been identified at this time.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

Springfield woman dies from injuries suffered in December 6 accident

 

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Dec. 6, 2022, at 10:02 am, officers with the Springfield Police Department were dispatched to the area of Campbell Ave. and Walnut Lawn St. for a serious injury crash.

A 2004 Honda CR-V driven by 76-year-old Sharon Walker of Springfield was northbound on Campbell Ave. turning onto westbound Walnut Lawn St. Walker’s vehicle was struck by a southbound 2014 BMW i8 L12 driven by 44-year-old Steven Kitrel of Springfield.

 

Walker was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment. She died of her injuries on Dec. 27, 2022. Walker’s next of kin has been notified.

Impairment is not believed to be a factor. The investigation is ongoing as to the circumstances of the crash. This marks the 27th fatality resulting from a motor vehicle crash in 2022.

Springfield Police investigating accidental shooting of juvenile

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Springfield Police are investigating the accidental shooting death of a juvenile in the 4300 block of West Helen on Dec. 27, 2022. 

The investigation is ongoing, but at this point there appears to be nothing suspicious in nature. More information will be provided as we are able.

Springfield Police arrest juvenile for domestic assault, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Last week, officers responded to a domestic assault near the 2000 block of N. Travis Avenue.
The juvenile suspect shot the victim in the shoulder.

The juvenile suspect confronted the victim and two other people about a stolen PlayStation. 

A disturbance ensued and the suspect fired a handgun. During the shooting, the victim was struck in the shoulder one time.

When officers arrived on scene, the juvenile suspect resisted arrest. 

One officer was injured during the arrest. The juvenile suspect was arrested for first degree domestic assault, first degree burglary and 2nd degree assault on a law enforcement officer.

Monett Police Department Monthly Activity Report

 

Springfield Public Schools cancels Thursday classes, athletic events due to extreme weather forecast

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 22, due to the forecast for extreme winter weather, including dangerous wind chill and snow during the commute. Both seated classes and live virtual instruction have been canceled for Dec. 22. 

In addition, all activities and athletic games are canceled for Thursday and Friday. Today will be the last day of the first semester. When students return to school Jan. 4, the second semester will begin. For more information, visit the district’s website at sps.org. Thank you.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind chill warning for Thursday afternoon through Saturday. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly in these conditions. 

Individuals are encouraged to limit their exposure to the cold. If you do need to go outside, wear a hat and gloves and dress in warm, layered clothing.

The following links provide additional information about preparing for winter weather:National Weather Service Winter Resources
Missouri Department of Transportation Traveler Information
Greene County Office of Emergency Management


In non-emergency situations, you may also dial 211 to learn more about available community resources.

Springfield, Rogersville men sentenced multi-million-dollar catalytic converter scheme

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

Three Rogersville, Mo., and Springfield, Mo., men have been sentenced in federal court for their roles in a scheme to transport tens of thousands of stolen catalytic converters across state lines as part of a multi-million-dollar business.

“These three defendants were the ringleaders of a scheme that impacted thousands of area residents,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “We worked closely with a number of our law enforcement partners to shut down their multi-million-dollar operation and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Evan Marshall, 25, of Rogersville, Cody Ryder, 31, of Springfield, and Camren Joseph Davis, 25, of Rogersville, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool on Monday, Dec. 19.

Marshall was sentenced to five years and 10 months in federal prison without parole. The court also imposed a $750,000 money judgment against Marshall to be forfeited to the government, ordered Marshall to pay $19,133 in restitution to victims of the conspiracy who law enforcement were able to identify, and forfeiture to the government of the following items that were seized by law enforcement: 33 rifles, 20 scopes, six shotguns, 26 handguns, a Glock sub conversion kit, eight ammunition magazines, a 2011 Ram 3500 one-ton pickup, a 2004 Dodge Ram, a flatbed trailer, two 42-foot gooseneck flatbed trailers, a 16-foot livestock trailer, a 2021 Load N Go utility trailer, a 2007 car hauler trailer, a Volkswagen dune buggy, two Harley Davidson motorcycles, a 2012 Keystone 5th wheel camper, a Caterpillar skid steer, a 2019 Honda Talon SXS 1000 side by side, a 2016 Polaris RZR side by side, a Polaris Ranger 4x4, and 191 catalytic converters.

Ryder was sentenced to two years and five months in federal prison without parole. Davis was sentenced to five years of probation. The court imposed money judgments against Ryder and Davis to forfeit to the government $125,000 each.

“We are pleased to be a part of, and to see the successful ending, to this long-term investigation,” said Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams. “It is good to see the main participants in this crime being held accountable, and the potential for restitution for victims in our community.”

“Our community is painfully aware that catalytic converter thefts are not victimless crimes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge of the HSI Kansas City Area of Responsibility Josh Armstrong. “While many may consider catalytic converter thefts to be victimless, all too often criminals involved in these types of thefts sometimes funnel the profits gained to organized criminal networks to fund additional, more dangerous crimes.”

On June 16, 2022, Marshall pleaded guilty to one count of transporting stolen property across state lines. Ryder pleaded guilty on June 13, 2022, and Davis pleaded guilty on April 21, 2022, to their roles in a conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines.

Co-defendants Enx Khoshaba, 30, Leslie Ice, 38, and Eric Kaltenbach, 38, all of Springfield, and Danielle Ice, 34, of Columbia (formerly of Springfield), have pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines and await sentencing.

Marshall admitted that he transported stolen catalytic converters, valued at $1 million or more, across state lines from December 2019 to October 2021. Marshall also admitted that he bought tens of thousands of stolen catalytic converters directly from his co-defendants and from other thieves, and sold the stolen catalytic converters for a total of approximately $1 million.

Marshall began selling the catalytic converters to a company in Mountain Home, Arkansas, in the fall of 2019. At that time, Marshall would purchase junk vehicles and sell the vehicles’ parts, including the catalytic converters. In the late fall of 2019, the owners of the Mountain Home company asked Marshall if he would begin purchasing catalytic converters in southwest Missouri and sell to them exclusively. Marshall agreed to do so; in return, they regularly provided Marshall with cash so that Marshall had the funds to purchase a higher volume of catalytic converters. They also provided Marshall with a list of valuable catalytic converters. By December 2019, Marshall had mostly ceased buying junk vehicles and scrapping them out for parts, and instead began purchasing already-detached catalytic converters from scrap yards and individual sellers.

By January 2020, the owners of the Mountain Home company were wiring Marshall hundreds of thousands of dollars on a monthly basis so that Marshall could purchase a higher volume of detached catalytic converters.

By December 2019, Marshall had also enlisted Davis to work for him and another company, which Marshall also established in December 2019. Davis’s job was to purchase catalytic converters using cash that Marshall provided him. During that time period, Marshall provided Davis with hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash to purchase catalytic converters on Marshall’s behalf. As part of the arrangement, Davis exclusively sold the catalytic converters he purchased to Marshall. On at least one occasion, Marshall provided Davis with $40,000 in cash for the purchase of catalytic converters on Marshall’s behalf.

Davis admitted that he bought at least 1,500 stolen catalytic converters from various thieves and sold them to Marshall for a total of approximately $250,000.

In February 2021, Marshall enlisted Ryder to work for him and his company. As with Davis, Ryder’s job was to purchase catalytic converters using cash that Marshall provided him. From February 2021 through October 2021, Marshall provided Ryder with hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash to purchase catalytic converters on Marshall’s behalf. As part of the arrangement, Ryder exclusively sold the catalytic converters he purchased to Marshall. On at least one occasion, Marshall provided Ryder with $10,000 in cash for the purchase of catalytic converters on Marshall’s behalf.

Ryder admitted that he bought at least 1,500 stolen catalytic converters from thieves and sold them to Marshall for an aggregate amount of approximately $250,000.

Many of the catalytic converters that Davis and Ryder purchased with the cash Marshall provided them were stolen, and Marshall knew at the time that many of them were stolen. Marshall paid Davis and Ryder an agreed-upon percentage amount over their purchase price for the catalytic converters, less the amount of cash Marshall had fronted them.

From December 2019 through October 2021, in addition to utilizing Davis and Ryder as buyers of stolen catalytic converters, Marshall also purchased stolen catalytic converters directly from thieves. In July 2020, a Springfield, Mo., police detective contacted Marshall regarding the purchase of catalytic converters from individuals known to be thieves. Despite being put on notice that he was purchasing stolen catalytic converters, Marshall continued to purchase stolen catalytic converters, including from at least one of the individuals identified by the detective.

Marshall admitted that he knowingly purchased stolen catalytic converters from co-defendants Davis, Ryder, Ice, Kaltenbach, Khoshaba, and at least six other thieves. Marshall transported and sold almost all of the catalytic converters, including the stolen catalytic converters, to the owners of the Mountain Home business.

Marshall, Davis, Ryder and others loaded the catalytic converters, including the stolen catalytic converters, into bins that were placed on trailers at Marshall’s residence. They hauled the trailers, which each contained between 800 and 1,200 catalytic converters, many of which were stolen, from Rogersville to Mountain Home. Marshall transported catalytic converters from Rogersville to Mountain Home approximately every two weeks from December 2019 through October 2021.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shannon T. Kempf and Anthony Brown. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Webster County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri Department of Revenue and the Greene County, Mo., Prosecuting Attorney.

Cassville Police investigating arson at Probation and Parole office

 

Springfield Board of Education approves bond proposal for April 4 ballot

(From Springfield Public Schools)

On April 4, Springfield Public Schools will ask voters to authorize the district to issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $220 million for the purpose of completing projects that will impact all schools in the district.

If voters approve the request, there would be no increase to the district’s current debt service property tax levy. The current rate of 73 cents per $100 of assessed valuation of real estate and personal property would remain unchanged and will be used to cover the cost of improvements.

\

The bond proposal, known as Proposition S, was recommended by a citizen task force, which studied the needs of all district facilities and prioritized these projects to provide quality learning environments for all students and to enhance the safety and security of schools.

The Community Task Force on Facilities, comprised of more than 30 students, parents and community members from across the district, spent the past five months studying and evaluating the current condition of SPS schools. Co-chairs David Hall and Bridget Dierks presented the task force’s recommendations to the Board of Education in October. The school board voted Dec. 13 to move forward with placing a request on the April 4 ballot.


A similar process was used in developing recommendations for the successful 2019 bond proposal, which invested $168 million in SPS schools. By January 2023, SPS will have completed all projects promised by the 2019 bond on time with funds remaining. As a result, extra projects were completed with 2019 bond funds, including new storm shelter gymnasiums at Field and Twain elementary schools, Phase 2 renovations of Hillcrest High School and construction of a new York Elementary School.

"It is important that we continue the momentum to address remaining critical needs with our schools," Hall explained. "The 2019 bond made a significant impact and now we have the opportunity to positively impact more students and staff without raising the debt service levy.”

"The task force spent significant time touring schools, reviewing data and discussing possible projects,” Dierks said. "As a group, we reached consensus that these projects were the most critical and would benefit the most students."

The Projects

In April, voters will be asked to approve funding for the following projects:

Safety and security upgrades at all schools including door access sensors and alarms, security camera upgrades, roof access sensors and alarms, and protective glass film for ground-floor windows. ($6.9 million)

Construction of a new Pipkin Middle School ($53 million)

Construction of a new Reed Academy ($59.5 million)

 
Renovation of Pershing School ($50 million)

Construction of storm shelters at Cowden, Holland, Mann, Pittman, Watkins, and Wilder elementary schools ($30.3 million)

(Note: To cover any potential inflation in cost of construction, labor or materials, $19.7 million will be reserved for use as needed. Any remaining funds will be invested in Phase 3 priority projects.)

The Investment

Property taxes are the primary funding source public schools can use to pay for major capital improvements. The $220 million proposal would
not increase the district’s current debt service property tax levy. It would remain at the current 73 cents per $100 of assessed valuation of real estate and personal property.

For More Information

Specific details about each of the proposed projects is currently being developed and will be shared with the community in January 2023.

Springfield man sentenced to 15 years for heroin trafficking, illegal firearm

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute heroin and for illegally possessing a firearm.

Derrick L. Hall, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 15 years in federal prison without parole.

On June 29, 2022, Hall pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin from May 15 to Sept. 18, 2019, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

According to court documents, Hall sold 14 grams of heroin to a confidential informant on two separate occasions and sold an additional 23 grams of heroin and a firearm to a confidential informant on a third occasion. Hall drove to St. Louis on Aug. 29, 2019, where he obtained approximately 50 grams of heroin that was seized from him in a traffic stop. He returned to St. Louis on Sept. 18, 2019, and encountered law enforcement officers when he returned home.

On Sept. 18, 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hall’s residence. Officers found a plastic bag that contained approximately 17.4 grams of heroin on top of the bedroom dresser, a plastic bag that contained approximately 48.2 grams of heroin inside a boot that was lying in between the bed and the nightstand, a plastic container that contained a plastic bag with approximately 2.8 grams of heroin on top of the nightstand, and a plastic bag that contained approximately a half gram of heroin in the trash can. Officers found a total of approximately 70 grams of heroin in Hall’s residence, a Sig Sauer firearm with ammunition, and $4,532 in cash inside a purse on the floor of the bedroom closet.

Officers also searched Hall’s car, which was parked in the driveway, and found a plastic bag that contained a white substance (consistent with a cutting agent for heroin) in the trunk of the vehicle. It was found near a bottle of Dormin, which is a cutting agent for heroin, and small plastic baggies, consistent with that used to package user amounts of heroin. Officers also found ammunition in the trunk of Hall’s car.

According to court documents, Hall’s criminal history began in 1987, when he was 17 years old and committed the crime of possession of cocaine. That same year, he attempted to rob someone and when the person said they had nothing for him to take, shot the person in the leg. In 1988 he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for assault and five years for possession of cocaine. In April 2011, Hall sold cocaine to an undercover police officer in St. Louis County, Mo., and was convicted of distributing a controlled substance. Hall also has seven convictions for stealing and was on parole at the time he committed the federal violations in this case.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine L. Stockard. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Woman arrested after allegedly firing shots from car at Springfield man

(From the Springfield Police Department)

In the early morning hours on Tuesday, December 6, officers responded to the report of shots heard in the 500 block of N. Meteor Ave.

 
When officers arrived, evidence of shots fired were located. The victim stated a female suspect fired shots at him and his residence. After speaking with the victim, officers identified the suspect as Kimberly Presson, 56, Springfield, and her vehicle.

 

 
Later on, an officer on patrol in the area heard shots coming from the same area and Presson’s vehicle was leaving the area. 

Officers conducted a felony traffic stop and detained Presson. Presson was arrested and booked to the Greene County Jail for 1st degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

Police: Springfield man impersonated officer, committed assault

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Officers responded to an assault on Sunday night at Rapid Robert's on W. Sunshine.

 
The victim was in the parking lot when the suspect, Nathan Smith, 38, Springfield, approached him and identified himself as a police officer. The victim told Smith he was contacting police and Smith ran away before returning a short time later. 

After identifying himself again as a police officer, Smith brandished a knife and assaulted the victim before running away. The victim was not injured.

 
While officers were speaking with the victim, Smith returned to the area where he again identified himself as a police officer and was detained. Smith was arrested and booked to the Greene County Jail for 2nd degree assault and impersonation of a law enforcement officer.

Cassville Police: Do you know these people?

 

Springfield-Greene County Health Department encourages COVID-19 booster shots, flu shots

(From the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

Springfield-Greene County Health is encouraging more people to get their COVID-19 updated booster due to rising COVID-19 cases. The 7-day average for COVID-19 cases is 49 as of Dec. 1 – the highest since mid-September. 

The rise in COVID-19 cases is due in part to low vaccination rates. New data shows only 10% of Greene County residents ages 5 and up having received the updated booster.









A person’s acquired immunity naturally decreases over time which causes protection from previous doses of a COVID-19 primary series or booster to wane. The COVID-19 updated booster gives the body’s immune system a boost to maintain strong protection against COVID-19.

The booster, available from both Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech, is designed to help protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19 and its Omicron variant, as well as the Omicron strains BA.4 and BA.5.

COVID-19 is not the only respiratory illness going around this time of year. Flu cases in Greene County are historically high, with nearly 800 cases being reported from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3. Flu vaccines are available and can help protect you against severe illness. It takes around two weeks for your body to build antibodies to protect you against the flu, so getting vaccinated this week can protect you before the holidays.

 

It is considered safe to get both a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time.

You can find vaccination opportunities for both the COVID-19 updated booster and flu closest to you by using the Find a Vaccine map tool at vaccine417.com.

Individuals who receive a primary (first or second) dose of the COVID-19 vaccine or their first booster shot at a Health Department clinic will receive a $50 gift card while supplies last.

 

Springfield Police Department investigates murder-suicide

(From the Springfield Police Department)

News Flash

On Dec. 3, 2022, at approximately 7:03 p.m., the Springfield Police Department was dispatched to 731 W. Whiteside Street after receiving a 911 call that two people were inside with gunshot wounds. When officers entered the residence, they discovered a male and a female deceased inside.

The Springfield Homicide Unit investigated the crime scene and determined the male suspect, Lavare W. D. Everett, 44, shot and killed the female victim, Christina M. Lopez, 45. Everett then died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

 

Both Everett and Lopez are from Springfield. Both families have been notified.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

This incident marks the 17th homicide investigation for 2022.

Springfield man indicted on meth, weapons charges

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for illegally possessing a firearm and methamphetamine to distribute.

Timothy S. Brandkamp, 62, was charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Brandkamp is charged as an armed career offender due to his prior convictions for a violent felony and three serious drug offenses. He is therefore subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole if convicted.

Today’s indictment charges Brandkamp with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Brandkamp allegedly was in possession of a Taurus 9mm pistol and approximately 12 rounds of ammunition on Oct. 14 and 20, 2022. The indictment also charges Brandkamp with one count of possessing methamphetamine to distribute on those dates.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Brandkamp has a federal felony conviction for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, for which he was on supervised release at the time of the offense after serving 13 years in federal prison. Brandkamp also has two prior felony convictions for selling methamphetamine, as well as prior felony convictions for possessing methamphetamine, selling an imitation controlled substance, and assault.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony M. Brown. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office.

Nixa man indicted for armed robbery at Great Southern

 A Nixa man was indicted for Monday's armed robbery of Great Southern Bank in Springfield.

According to KY3's report, Kyle B. Whitmore, 38, became upset while doing a transaction in the drive-through, went into the bank, where he threatened employees, told them he had a gun and left with cash.

West Plains man convicted on sexual exploitation of a 13-month old boy, child porn charges

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

A West Plains, Mo., man was convicted by a trial jury today of the sexual exploitation of a 13-month-old child and of distributing child pornography.

Kenneth Howard Worthy, 46, was found guilty of one count of the sexual exploitation of a child by producing child pornography and one count of distributing child pornography.

Worthy’s criminal activities came to light during an investigation of another individual involved with child pornography. That individual informed investigators that Worthy had transmitted images of himself engaged in sexual acts with a child.

On March 4, 2021, law enforcement officers contacted Worthy at his residence. Worthy admitted that he had used a child victim under the age of two, identified in court documents as “John Doe,” to produce child pornography. Worthy also told investigators he sent pornographic images of the child victim to another person.

Officers seized Worthy’s cell phone. Investigators found 10 images of child pornography that depicted John Doe and Worthy.

Under federal statutes, Worthy is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years 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.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., deliberated for 45 minutes before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool, ending a trial that began Monday, Dec. 5.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron Beaver, James J. Kelleher and Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force and the West Plains, Mo., Police Department.

Eagle Days planned at Roaring River State Park

(From Missouri State Parks)

As winter is approaching, temperatures are dropping and water sources for animals may start to freeze. Bald eagles are starting to migrate south in search of food and water. With its constant flowing water and abundance of fish, Roaring River State Park is an ideal location for eagles.

Join the park team from 2:30 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17, 2022, and Jan. 7, 2023, to learn about bald eagles and search the skies for these magnificent birds. 

Stop by the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center anytime between 2:30 and 5 p.m. to participate in eagle-themed crafts and activities. While several spotting scopes will be set up to look for eagles, guests are welcome to bring their own scopes, binoculars and cameras.

The program is free and open to the public. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water and snacks.

Roaring River State Park is located 7 miles south of Cassville on Highway 112 in Barry County at 12716 Farm Road 2239 in Cassville. For more information, contact the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center at 417-847-3742.

Springfield Police searching for missing 10-year-old

UPDATE; Mia Kendrix has been located.

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating an endangered missing person.

Tamiah “Mia” F. Kendrix, 10, is a five-foot tall, 120-pound girl with black hair and brown eyes. Kendrix was last seen today at 4 p.m., wearing a black Adidas hoodie and jeans near the apartment complex at 2601 N. Cresthaven. She told friends she was going to run away from home.

Anyone with information relating to her whereabouts should call 911 or the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

Marshfield woman killed in accident at Glenstone and I-44, pulled in front of Carthage driver

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Dec. 3, 2022, at 3:18 p.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to a two-vehicle crash near Glenstone Ave., and Interstate 44.

Rita Deckard, 57, of Marshfield, was driving a red 2009 Toyota Scion XB southbound on Glenstone. Deckard made a left turn onto eastbound I-44 when the Toyota was hit by a northbound red 2022 Tesla Model 3, driven by Alan Jones, 22, of Carthage. 

Both vehicles left the roadway northeast of the intersection after the collision. The driver and passenger of the Tesla were transported to the hospital with moderate injuries.

Deckard was pronounced dead on scene. Deckard’s family has been notified.

Speed is believed to be a factor in the crash; however, impairment is not. The circumstances involved in the crash are under investigation. Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to call the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

This is Springfield’s 25th fatal vehicle crash in 2022.

Springfield police arrest eight drunk drivers during saturation patrol

 

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On Dec. 3, 2022, the Springfield Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted a six-hour saturation patrol focused on arresting impaired drivers. 

Officers used marked patrol vehicles as well as the MSHP helicopter to enforce hazardous moving violations commonly associated with intoxicated driving.

There were 80 vehicles stopped during this patrol. As a result, eight drivers were arrested for driving while intoxicated, seven were arrested on drug charges including six misdemeanor arrests and one felony arrest, one stolen motorcycle was recovered, and one was arrested on an outstanding felony warrant. Additionally, 100 citations and 68 warnings were issued.

Consequences of impaired driving include jail time, loss of driving privileges, sentencing to use ignition interlocks and increased insurance rates. Financial losses include attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work, and the potential loss of a job.

This holiday season, drivers should make plans for how to get home from their holiday celebrations.

Drunk driving is not worth the consequences. If you drink and drive, you lose.

The saturation patrol is funded through a grant from the Missouri Department of Transportation Traffic and Highway Safety Division.

Suspects arrested, charged with stealing, damaging C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue trailer

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Yesterday, Greene County Detectives executed a search warrant along with the Webster County Sheriffs Office in the 900 Block of South Ranch Road in Webster County in search of the C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue Trailer. 

While executing the search warrant, they located the trailer on the property. Unfortunately, the trailer had been damaged. Two suspects, Daniel J. Butts and Robert D. Hopkins were arrested.

Both Daniel and Robert were formally charged with Felony Stealing and Property Damage in the 1st Degree with a $25,000.00 Open Court Bond and are housed in the Greene County Jail. Greene County Cases 2231-CR05444 and 2231-CR05445.

 
"A charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty."

Arrests made in connection with armed robbery at Aurora McDonald's

(From the Aurora-Marionville Police Department)

On 11-30-2022, AMPD executed a search warrant related to the robbery at McDonald’s the night before and also related to other crimes in the area being investigated by other agencies.

 
As a result of that search warrant, we arrested Kaylee Gold (22) and Ryan Hall (22). Additionally, we recovered guns used in the crimes, ammo, stolen property including cash, clothing worn during the crimes, drugs, and other items considered evidence of their criminal activity.

 
As we mentioned, this is an active and ongoing investigation. We anticipate making more arrests related to these cases. When that happens, we will notify the community of their identities. All suspects will continue to be considered innocent until proven guilty.

From Chief Coatney

“We want to express our appreciation for the help we have received from the community, business owners, and other law enforcement agencies that also had people fall victim to these crimes. The investigation work conducted by our patrol and investigators was complex, state of the art, and required a lot of technical work we are thankful to have access to. If it were not for the training, equipment, technology, and community contacts our staff have at their disposal, this case would have taken much longer to clear.

 
To the men and women of AMPD. This was investigative and tactical work every bit as effective and precise as one would expect from much larger agencies with more resources. We prepare for these things so we can attack them quickly and efficiently when/if they happen. I cannot express how proud I am to be part of this AMPD team. 

Absolutely remarkable police work, by the best people in the business. When you know you’re going in to handle people known to be armed and willing to use those firearms, and can handle the situation without anyone getting hurt, you have won a major victory in policing.”

Springfield Police ask for help identifying driver of this vehicle

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Police Department needs the public’s assistance with identifying the driver of a vehicle related to a recent crash.

On Oct. 26, 2022, at 12:41 p.m., officers responded to a two-vehicle accident at Division and Golden involving a red Ford Focus and a black 2000s Honda Accord. 

The Focus was westbound on Division through the intersection when the Accord started traveling south on Golden into the intersection, disobeying a stop sign, and hit the Focus.

The driver of the Accord is described as a white man in his 20s or 30s with short hair and a small, athletic build. He also appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance.

If anyone recognizes the vehicle or suspect description, please contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1447 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

Daughter of slain Greene County deputy passes away at age 96

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Earlier this year Nellie “Nell” Jersak came to visit Sheriff Arnott and staff at the Greene County Sheriff’s Office. Her father, Deputy Oliver Crosswhite was killed in the Young Brothers Massacre in 1932. Nell was just 5 years old at the time and would turn 6 just days after her father’s death.

 
Her father is honored at the Sheriff’s Office for having paid the ultimate sacrifice. She also came to see the display given to us by College of the Ozarks. It includes duty weapons, badges and artifacts that belonged to the Sheriff, Deputies and Springfield Police Officers who were lost that day.

 
Nell passed away on November 28th, 2022. We are thankful for the opportunity to have spent time with her and the family just a few short months ago.

 
“I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to spend some time with Nell and her family. She shared her memory of officials coming to their door to share the sad news about her father. She and her family are owed our communities gratitude and appreciation for their sacrifice. She was an amazing woman.” -Sheriff Jim Arnott

https://www.gormanscharpf.com/obituary/nellie-jersak...

Lawrence County Sheriff: Kansas woman shot sleeping Miller man in the head, then killed herself

(From the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office)

The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office is releasing information on the death investigation that occurred just west of Miller on Monday afternoon.

The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to a well being check west of Miller after a call had been received that a person had not been heard from since just before Thanksgiving.

Deputies met with concerned persons at a residence west of Miller and entry was made into the residence where two deceased persons were found.

Investigation by the Sheriff's Office along with results from an autopsy determined that Caleb Kingsley, 55 of Miller, Mo suffered a single gun shot wound to the head while asleep in bed.

The other subject found deceased was a Linda Kennedy, 43, of Chetopa, KS. Kennedy's cause of death was a self inflicted gunshot wound.

 

The Sheriff's Office is concluding the investigation and should have the investigation completed within the next few days.

The Sheriff's Office would also like to assure the public that there is no threat to the community as both subjects were acquainted with each other.

  

Greene County Health Department to distribute free at-home COVID-19 tests

(From the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

Springfield-Greene County Health and the Springfield-Greene County Library District will be distributing approximately 2,000 free at-home COVID-19 test kits at all 10 Greene County library branches beginning Thursday, Dec. 1. Anyone in need of at-home test kits is welcome to visit any library location to retrieve two test kits containing one test in each kit, while supplies last.

Library operating hours may vary by location. Given the limited amount available, the Health Department encourages everyone to only pick up the allotted 2 test kits to allow others the opportunity to receive their test kits.

 

Testing for COVID-19 before gathering with family and friends during this holiday season is important and can prevent the unknowing spread of illness in our community. If you are unable to make it to a library to receive your testing kits, COVID-19 testing is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Springfield-Greene County Health, 227 E. Chestnut Expy. Testing appointments can be made by visiting COVIDTesting417.com.

Additionally, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has free COVID-19, RSV, and Influenza A & B testing available on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Teamsters Hall, 1850 E. Division St.

Vaccination continues to be the best way to prevent severe illness from COVID-19. If interested in getting vaccinated, please visit vaccine417.com or call 417-874-1211.

Springfield man hit by two vehicles, killed

On Nov. 30, 2022, at 9:22 p.m., Springfield Police Department officers responded to a pedestrian hit by two vehicles at Campbell Ave. and Plainview Rd.

Christopher Fleming, 45, of Springfield, was walking westbound across Campbell at Plainview when he walked in front of a northbound blue 2016 Hyundai Sonata, driven by Gracie Lamia, 20, of Springfield, which hit Fleming. Fleming was hit by a second vehicle, a northbound silver 2007 Lincoln Town Car, driven by Victor Staelens, 54, of Battlefield.

 

Fleming was transported to the hospital where he later died. Fleming’s family has been notified.

Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash. The circumstances involved in the crash are under investigation.

This is Springfield’s 24th traffic fatality in 2022.

Greene County sees record levels of influenza in November

(From the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

Springfield-Greene County Health has reported 1,035 cases of flu in Greene County so far this flu season. As of Nov. 26, there have been 876 flu cases in the month of November, making it the worst November for influenza within the last twenty years. The second highest November during this time period was in 2009, when 230 cases were reported.

“The flu is unpredictable,” says Kendra Findley, the Health Department’s Administrator for Communicable Disease. “We were able to anticipate that this season could start earlier and see more cases, but we can’t know if this is the peak or start of a historic surge in flu.”

Getting vaccinated is the best method available to protect yourself against the flu. People with insurance should contact their healthcare provider or a local pharmacy to make an appointment to get vaccinated. Those who are uninsured or underinsured can visit a Health Department Outreach clinic this week to get their flu shot and stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccine. A calendar and map of flu and COVID-19 vaccine opportunities is available at vaccine417.com or by calling 417-874-1211.

Additionally, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has free COVID-19, RSV, and Influenza A & B testing available on Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Teamsters Hall, 1850 E. Division St.

 

In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 and tested when you’re sick, the Health Department is encouraging people to practice good hygiene. Simple things like washing your hands and coughing and sneezing into an elbow or upper arm can help prevent the spread of viruses.

The Health Department is urging people to stay home when they are sick. This includes keeping children home from school when they are showing symptoms of respiratory illness. Staying home will help prevent the spread of illnesses, reduce the impact on our healthcare systems and keep others safe this flu season.