Springfield Public Schools names new administrators

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools announced Wednesday the selection of the district’s assistant director of early childhood education and new principals for Campbell Early Childhood Center and Jeffries Elementary. These appointments are effective July 1.

Tammy Flowers, the current principal of Campbell Early Childhood Center, has been promoted to serve as the district’s assistant director of early childhood education for the 2023-2024 school year. SPS has significantly expanded access to early childhood programming in recent years. The Wonder Years preschool program is now offered at multiple elementary sites and four early childhood centers districtwide, emphasizing language development, literacy, math and social interaction. Tammy has served as principal of Campbell Early Childhood Center since 2018.

Prior to joining SPS, Tammy served as the coordinator of early childhood in St. Joseph, overseeing early childhood special education, Title 1 preschool and Parents-as-Teachers. Past teaching experience includes instruction at Missouri Western State University and Baptist Bible College. She completed undergraduate studies in elementary education at Missouri Western State University and graduate work in educational administration from William Woods University.

“I am thrilled to continue serving SPS in this leadership capacity, which allows me to collaborate in new ways to expand learning opportunities for our community’s youngest learners,” she said.

Kayla Hollister-Graham will follow Tammy Flowers as the next principal of Campbell Early Childhood Center, where she has most recently served as a behavior interventionist. Prior to joining SPS in 2018, she taught fifth grade in the Avilla R-13 School District.

Kayla graduated from Central High School with an International Baccalaureate Diploma prior to completing undergraduate studies in early childhood education at Missouri State University and graduate work in educational leadership at Northwest Missouri State University.

“Campbell Early Childhood Center holds a special place in my heart,” said Kayla. “I am excited for the opportunity to continue serving our early childhood students and their families in this new role.”

Dr. Christen Glenn will serve as the next principal of Jeffries Elementary, effective July 1. Christen joined SPS in 2012 as a fifth grade teacher, later serving as a learning specialist. In her district role with professional learning, she worked with principals to align training with their school action plans and helped develop early career teachers. She has served as a principal for Explore summer learning and currently serves as the assistant principal at Delaware Elementary.

Prior to joining SPS, Christen taught in the Marionville R-IX School District. She completed undergraduate studies in elementary education and graduate work in educational administration, both from Missouri State University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Southwest Baptist University.

“I am so excited to join the Jeffries community as we continue the journey toward reaching our greatest potential,” she said. “I look forward to building relationships with staff, families and community partners while working together to support growth. I cannot wait to get started!”

Springfield Police investigate assault at Houlihan's, armed robbery

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Officers responded to a robbery on Saturday afternoon in the 800 block of N. Cedarbrook. The victim arranged online to buy a gaming system from Deviyon Smith, 19. 

The victim went to Smith’s residence to complete the transaction and was robbed at gunpoint. Officers arrived and took Smith into custody. Smith was arrested and booked into the Greene County Jail for 1st degree robbery.

 𝐀𝐬 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐙𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞! 
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On Friday night officers responded to an assault at Houlihan’s on north Glenstone. Benjamin Salter, 43, was sitting at the bar with the victim. Salter engaged the victim in a verbal dispute then stabbed the victim. Salter was taken into custody and booked into the Greene County Jail for 1st degree assault. The victim had minor injuries.
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Also on Friday night, officers responded to the report of shots fired in the 1400 block of E. Commercial St. When officers arrived, a witness identified Joseph Gutierrez-Weese, 23, as the suspect. He was immediately arrested and a firearm, stolen motorcycle and controlled substances were recovered from him. Gutierrez-Weese was booked into the Greene County Jail for possession of controlled substance, tampering with a motor vehicle, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Hollister children seriously injured in ATV accident

Two Hollister children were injured in a one-vehicle accident 7 p.m. Sunday on Historic 165, one mile east of Hollister.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Arctic Cat ATV driven by a 16-year-old Hollister boy overturned.

The boy and a passenger, a 12-year-old boy were treated for serious injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

LaRussell woman flown to Mercy Springfield after motor scooter crash

A LaRussell woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 11:45 p.m. Friday on Lawrence County Road 1040, two miles north of Stotts City.

According to the Highway Patrol report, 2022 Solan motor scooter driven by Jeannie M. Moloian, 54, LaRussell, struck a concrete bridge, went airborne and struck an embankment.

Moloian was flown to Mercy Springfield to be treated for serious injuries.

El Dorado Springs man killed in ATV accident

 
An El Dorado Springs man was killed in a one-vehicle accident 9:50 a.m.today on private property eight miles south of El Dorado Springs.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 Polaris 330 Magnum ATV overturned on its driver, Mark D. White, 61, El Dorado Springs.

Dr. Morris Glover pronounced White dead at 11:29 a.m. at Nevada Regional Hospital.

The fatality was the 30th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Greene County Sheriff investigates possible murder-suicide on South Ridgecrest Drive

(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Today, during the mid-morning hours, Greene County Deputies were dispatched to the 4800 Block of South Ridgecrest Drive for a check well-being call. 

When deputies arrived, they located 84-year-old, Wayne Conti and 79-year-old, Judy Conti inside the residence deceased. Both individuals appeared to have suffered gunshot wounds.

Greene County Detectives are on scene as this continues to be an active investigation.

 
Next of kin have been notified. There is no immediate threat to the public at this time.

Purdy woman suffers serious injuries in crash near Pierce City

A Purdy woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 2:40 p.m. Wednesday on MO 37 one mile north of Pierce City.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2017 Ford Edge driven by Constance L. Fletcher, 77, Purdy, traveled off the left side of the road, overturned and struck a fence.

Fletcher was treated for serious injuries at Mercy Springfield.

16-year-old Powersite girl killed in rollover crash on 76

 A Powersite teen was killed in a one-vehicle accident 1 a.m. today on MO 76 in Kirbyville.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2012 GMC Terrain driven by a 16-year-old Powersite girl crossed the center line. The driver overcorrected, the vehicle began skidding, ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a guy wire, overturned and came to rest on its top.

Taney County Coroner Kent Vanderpool pronounced the girl dead at the scene at 1:40 a.m.

The fatality was the 29th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.

Surveillance footage leads to arrest of Aurora man for copper theft

(From the Aurora-Marionville Police Department)

For the last couple of weeks, AMPD has been investigating a commercial burglary where nearly $4000 in copper was stolen. This business had installed a camera system which gave our officers and investigators leads to track down.

Today, AMPD arrested Dustin Cash, 37, Aurora, for the Burglary. He is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Our staff worked hard to track this crime down. Having video surveillance at your business and home is so important and can pay for itself with one capture like this one.

 
This is another case where our patrol and investigators have worked together, managed intelligence, and successfully cleared another crime. Great work by our team on this one.

Springfield man killed in one-vehicle accident

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On April 15, 2023, at 6:50 a.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to a single-vehicle crash at Loren St. and National Ave.

Steven Nelson, a 54-year-old from Springfield, was driving a blue 2005 Suzuki Vitara southbound on National Ave. at Loren St. The vehicle left the roadway to the right then hit a tree, a wooden display box, and a concrete bench before overturning and coming to rest on the driver’s side. Nelson, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was transported to the hospital.

Nelson died because of injuries sustained in the crash on April 20, 2023. Nelson’s family has been notified.

The circumstances of the crash are under investigation. Anyone with any information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810.

This is Springfield’s 12th fatal motor vehicle crash in 2023.

Five Springfield residents indicted on meth conspiracy, weapons charges

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

Five Springfield, Mo., residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and for illegally possessing firearms.

Dusty B. Lescard, 38, Anne Louise Currie, 61, Jeremy Moran Chambers, 44, Tilton Chase Tate, 39, and Erik C. Foster, 41, were charged in a 22-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield on April 12, 2023. That indictment has been unsealed. Lescard, Currie and Tate remain in federal custody pending their detention hearings.

The federal indictment alleges that Lescard, Currie, Chambers, Tate and Foster participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from March 18, 2021, to Oct. 12, 2022.

In addition to the conspiracy, Lescard is charged with six counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of distributing five grams or more of methamphetamine, and two counts of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Lescard is also charged with one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime and two counts of being a felon in possession of firearms. Lescard allegedly possessed a Glock 9mm pistol and a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol on Dec. 30, 2021, and a Glock 9mm pistol on Jan. 12, 2022.

Currie is also charged with two counts of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

Chambers is also charged with one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine to distribute, one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Chambers allegedly possessed a Ruger .22-caliber pistol, two Glock 9mm pistols and a Smith & Wesson .38-caliber revolver on July 22, 2021.

Tate is also charged with one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. Tate allegedly possessed a Ruger .380-caliber pistol and a Stoeger 9mm pistol on April 14, 2022.

Foster is also charged with two counts of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require the defendants to forfeit to the government any property obtained from the proceeds of the alleged offenses, including $11,960 that was seized by law enforcement.








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 Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the FBI, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Republic, Mo., Police Department, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Police make arrest in murder of Springfield man

(From the Springfield Police Department)

The Springfield Homicide Unit identified 21-year-old Justin L. Bartels, from St. Louis, as a suspect in the April 17 homicide of Lavelle C. Rose III. On April 18, 2023, Bartels was arrested and booked into the Greene County Jail.

On April 19, 2023, the case was presented to the Greene County Prosecutors Office. Bartels has been charged with 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and 1st Degree Assault. Bond is set at $250,000.

The Greene County Prosecutor’s Office cautions that the charges contained in the felony complaint are merely allegations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

A second suspect has been identified and officers are working to locate that person.

PREVIOUS RELEASE:

On April 17, 2023, at 6:51 p.m., the Springfield Police Department responded to the report of someone who had been shot in a vehicle at the intersection of Forest Ave. and Calhoun St. The male passenger and female driver had multiple gunshot wounds.

The male victim, Lavelle C. Rose III, 18, from East St. Louis, Illinois, was pronounced dead on scene. Rose’s family has been notified.

 

The female was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone with 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 is Springfield’s third homicide investigation in 2023.

Springfield Police investigate murder-suicide

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On April 18, 2023, at 3:58 p.m., the Springfield Police Department responded to 2110 S. Florence Avenue to check the well-being of a female after a caller heard possible gun shots. Officers discovered a male and a female deceased inside the home.

The Homicide Unit responded to investigate and determined the male suspect, 33-year-old Keith Spellmeier, from Harrison, Arkansas, shot and killed the female victim, 62-year-old Donna J. Spellmeier, from Springfield, inside the residence. Keith then died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

 

The family has been notified.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has additional 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 is Springfield’s fourth homicide investigation in 2023.

Monett Police need to identify this guy

(From the Monett Police Department)

The Monett Police Department is attempting to identify this person. He is wanted for questioning for stealing from Wal-Mart. If you have any information, please contact Sgt Ferguson with the Department. 417-235-4241.

Monett Police: Do you know this man?

(From the Monett Police Department)

The Monett Police Department is attempting to identify this person. He is wanted for questioning for stealing from Wal-Mart. 

If you have any information, please contact Sgt Ferguson with the Department. 417-235-4241.

Springfield Police investigating shooting death of 18-year-old

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On April 17, 2023, at 6:51 p.m., the Springfield Police Department responded to the report of someone who had been shot in a vehicle at the intersection of Forest Ave. and Calhoun St. The male passenger and female driver had multiple gunshot wounds.

The male victim, Lavelle C. Rose III, 18, from East St. Louis, Illinois, was pronounced dead on scene. Rose’s family has been notified.

 

The female was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

A suspect has not been identified in this case.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone with 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 is Springfield’s third homicide investigation in 2023.

Springfield Police Department investigates shooting during domestic assault, assault of wheelchair-bound man

(From the Springfield Police Department)

FROM THE BLOTTER 

Early Sunday morning, officers received notification that a stolen vehicle had passed a FLOCK license plate reader camera in southeast Springfield. 

The vehicle was located at the Kum & Go at 2150 S. Glenstone. Two subjects, Elysha Bedell, 19, and Arshaun Bradley, 19, were in the vehicle and arrested. Both were in possession of handguns and controlled substances. 

Bradley and Bedell were booked to the Greene County Jail for possession of a controlled substance, unlawful use of a weapon, and tampering with a motor vehicle.
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Officers responded to a domestic assault Saturday morning in the 1400 block of N. West. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

Witnesses said Eric Browning, 28, and the victim had been fighting. Browning was detained and a gun and shell casings were recovered. Browning was arrested and booked to the Greene County Jail for first degree assault and resisting arrest.

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On Thursday night, officers responded to the report of a man assaulting someone in a wheelchair in the 1200 block of E. St. Louis. The suspect hit the victim with a vehicle and fled the scene. The victim was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

With a vehicle and suspect description from witnesses, officers recognized it as Brian Glanden, 43, from another incident earlier in the evening. Officers arrested Glanden when he returned to his home. Glanden was booked into the Greene County Jail for leaving the scene of a crash (hit and run).

Suspect arrested in connection with armed robbery at Aurora convenience store

(From the Aurora-Marionville Police Department)

As previously reported, on 04-10-2023 at approximately 11:20pm, a male subject entered the Eagle Stop store on Pin Oak drive, displayed a weapon, demanded money, received a small amount of cash, and fled.

Since that time, investigators and officers with AMPD have been assessing the evidence in this case. Using several investigative techniques, we positively identified the suspect and began searching for him.

On the evening of 4-13-2023, AMPD placed Dustin Lamphear under arrest on suspicion of committing this robbery. He is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. He has been transported to the Lawrence County Jail where he will be held in lieu of the filing of charges and/or release.

Chief Coatney says, “when these events happen, our staff at AMPD are dedicated to resolving the case and bringing the suspects to justice. 

In this case, our investigators and patrol staff worked seamlessly together in tracking the evidence and suspect. Additionally, we received help from our neighboring agencies which rounded off this successful investigation. 

We are blessed to have the dedicated men and women in law enforcement we have protecting our citizens. I couldn’t be more impressed with them. Aurora and Marionville is a horrible location to engage in criminal activity. We encourage changing your behavior, or your address, before we come for you.”

Springfield man charged with enticement of a child, attempted kidnapping

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Danny R. Piper, 48, from Springfield was charged yesterday with Enticement of a Child and Attempted Child Kidnapping. He is being held in the Greene County Jail with no bond.

Please read the incident details below. We are concerned there might be other similar incidents involving Piper that have not been reported. We are encouraging potential victims or their parents to report the incidents so we can investigate.

Original news release

On April 12, 2023, at 7:02 p.m., Springfield Police officers responded to an attempted abduction of a child at the Dream Center at 829 W. Atlantic. 

When officers arrived, they were told a male attempted to get a child to leave with him but was stopped by the child’s father. The suspect and child did not know each other. The male suspect then left the area on foot with a female prior to officers arriving on scene. The child was not harmed during the incident.

Employees of the Dream Center identified the suspect as Danny R. Piper, 48, from Springfield.
Officers located Piper a short time later. He was arrested and booked into the Greene County Jail. It was determined that the female who accompanied Piper was not involved, so she was released. 

On April 13, 2023, the case was presented to the Greene County Prosecutors Office and Piper was charged with Enticement of a Child and Attempted Child Kidnapping. Piper is being held in the Greene County Jail with no bond. 

The Greene County Prosecutor’s Office cautions that the charges contained in the felony complaint are merely allegations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Investigators are concerned that there might be other similar incidents involving Piper in the area that have not been reported. The Springfield Police Department encourages potential victims or their parents to report the incidents so detectives can investigate those as well. 

The Springfield Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division is continuing to investigate this incident. Detectives are asking anyone who has additional information to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

New traffic pattern coming to I-44 as bridges over Freistatt Branch replaced

(From MODOT)

TRAFFIC ALERT: New Traffic Pattern Coming to I-44 Near Mile Marker 41 Beginning Week of April 24

What: Traffic will remain one lane in each direction, but will shift to outside lanes while crews replace bridges over Freistatt Branch

When: Beginning week of April 24 and remaining in this pattern until completion of the project, sometime in mid- to late June

Traffic Impacts

I-44 will be reduced to one lane of traffic in each direction west of Mt. Vernon near Mile Marker 41 until completion of the project, sometime in mid- to late June

Drivers should expect slowed traffic, traffic delays

Crews and large equipment near traffic

Speed limit will be reduced to 60 mph through work zone

Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone

Drivers should consider alternate routes during the project

Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

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

This work is part of a three-year project to improve 25 bridges within 15 miles of I-44 across the Southwest District. Of the 25 bridges in the project, known as the I-44 Corridor Bridge Bundle, seven (7) are mainline I-44 bridges, five (5) are I-44 overpass bridges and the remaining bridges are on adjacent routes over various features. Sixteen (16) bridges will be replaced and nine (9) bridges will receive major rehabilitation work.

More information about this project can be found on the project website here: I-44 Corridor Bridge Bundle Design-Build Project | Missouri Department of Transportation (modot.org)

Project Details

Prime Contractor – The ESS TeamEmery Sapp & Sons, Inc. – Columbia
Parsons Transportation Group, Inc. – St. Louis
Total Project Cost: $43.2 million
Contract Completion Date: September 30, 2024

The ESS Team is a partnership of engineering and construction firms that will design and construct the project with oversight by MoDOT and the Federal Highway Administration.

Springfield man killed in crash at Fort Avenue and Lindberg Street

(From the Springfield Police Department)

On April 4, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., officers with the Springfield Police Department responded to a single-vehicle accident at Fort Avenue and Lindberg Street.

A gold 1999 Buick Le Sabre, driven by 84-year-old Robert Scherff, of Springfield, was southbound on Fort Avenue. As Scherff approached Lindberg Street, he ran off the roadway on the right side and hit a light pole. Scherff was transported to the hospital with critical injuries.

 

On April 13, 2023, Scherff succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Scherff’s family have been notified.

The investigation is ongoing as to the circumstances involved in the crash.

This is Springfield’s 11th motor vehicle crash fatality in 2023.

Stockton couple airlifted to Cox South after car-buggy collision

Two Stockton residents were injured in a two-vehicle collision 4:39 p.m. Thursday on MO 32 at Filley.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2002 Buick Century driven by Larry M. Winder, 61, Stockton, struck a West Start Enterprise Kart (buggy) driven by Jerry E. Martin, 44, Stockton, from behind.

Martin and a passenger in his vehicle, Ruth Martin, 46, Stockton, were airlifted to Cox South Hospital, Springfield, with serious injuries.

Springfield Public Schools announces new leaders

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools announced on Thursday the appointment of new leaders for the 2023-2024 school year, including a new chief human resources officer, chief information officer and executive director of operations. 

The announcements reflect an alignment of operations and academic support with the district’s newly adopted strategic plan. Appointments are pending approval by the Board of Education.

“The 2023-2028 strategic plan was developed in collaboration with our entire community, including students, parents, employees and community members,” said Dr. Grenita Lathan, SPS superintendent. “The plan serves as the district's Continuous School Improvement Plan. We are committed to the well-being of each student by providing high-quality academic opportunities and today’s announcement reflects support for that ongoing work.”

Dr. Bret Range, current executive director of student & school services for SPS, will serve as its next chief human resources officer. Effective July 1, Dr. Range will be responsible for hiring, onboarding, evaluating and supporting the diverse workforce of Missouri’s largest school district, which employs more than 3,500 individuals. His appointment will follow the retirement of Dr. Bill Redinger.

Dr. Range has 25 years of experience in education, including service as a teacher, elementary principal, higher education assistant professor and central office administrator. He joined SPS in 1997 as a classroom teacher at Study Middle School, later serving as director of elementary learning. He holds bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees from Missouri State University and a doctorate degree from the University of Arkansas.

Mr. Bruce Douglas, current SPS director of information technology, has been named chief information officer, effective July 1. In this expanded role, Mr. Douglas will oversee a newly aligned department that includes all technology (Help Desk support); information security and systems (software selection, implementation, and training); and data analytics and accountability (data collection, compliance and reporting). This realignment supports Smart Goal 2.2 of the new strategic plan, to “evaluate and align administrative positions for organizational efficiency and effectiveness.”

Mr. Douglas joined SPS in 2006 as a help desk specialist, later serving as a database specialist for seven years before his selection as director of information technology in 2015. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Missouri State University.

Mr. Rick Carpenter, current executive director of operations for the Center School District in Kansas City, will serve in the same role for SPS, effective July 1. In this position, Mr. Carpenter will oversee facility maintenance, nutrition services, custodial/grounds, transportation, purchasing/distribution, school police and capital construction - including all projects funded by phase two of Proposition S. His appointment follows the promotion of Dr. Travis Shaw to deputy superintendent of operations and supports Smart Goal 4.1 of the new strategic plan to “maintain safe and quality spaces for all students and staff.”

Prior to five years with the Center School District, Mr. Carpenter’s leadership experience includes service as dean of career and technical education for Labette Community College; executive director of program development for the Southridge campus of Des Moines Area Community College (Iowa), and dean of student services for AIB College (Iowa). Mr. Carpenter completed undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Central Missouri.

Mrs. Michelle Gavel, current coordinator of equity and diversity for SPS, will serve as director of student access and opportunity, effective July 1. In her expanded role, Mrs. Gavel will oversee the alignment of the Department of Student Access and Opportunity, formerly known as the Office of Equity & Diversity. Mrs. Gavel’s team will support Smart Goal 1.4 of the new strategic plan to “review programming to ensure equitable access to opportunity for all students”. This team will work closely with the Department of Family Support Services to ensure SPS students and families have the support needed to succeed.

Mrs. Gavel joined SPS in 2021. Prior experience includes service in various capacities at Missouri State University, including as the assistant director of financial aid scholarships, a financial aid coordinator and counselor, and as the academic services coordinator for the Upward Bound Program. She completed undergraduate and graduate studies at Missouri State University.

Mrs. Gavel’s leadership will follow a transition by Dr. Yvania Garcia-Pusateri, current chief equity and diversity officer, to the role of college and career access specialist. Utilizing her extensive higher education experience, Dr. Garcia-Pusateri will now work directly with students, helping to ensure SPS graduates are success-ready and prepared for a variety of workforce opportunities.

Dr. Katie Kensinger, current coordinator of college and career readiness for SPS, will serve as the director of college and career readiness, effective July 1. In her expanded role, Dr. Kensinger will oversee the district’s continued growth of career and technical education for grades 6-12, including the development of CTE curriculum and oversight of dual and other college credits. Responsibilities will also include oversight of the college and career access department, including a coordinator and specialists at all five SPS high schools, as well as the expansion of three additional specialists to cover middle schools. These team members help students explore a variety of college and career opportunities, including use of the Naviance tool. This alignment with the new strategic plan supports Smart Goal 1.6 to “enhance real-world educational opportunities for all students.”

Prior to joining SPS as the coordinator of site interventions in 2018, Dr. Kensinger taught family and consumer science in Branson, Strafford, Blue Eye and Trenton. She completed undergraduate and graduate studies at Missouri State University, as well as specialist and doctorate degrees in education administration from Lindenwood University.

Branson Police arrest arson suspect

(From Branson Police Department)

On April 11, 2023 just before 7:00 am, Branson Police Department and Branson MO Fire-Rescue, along with support from other local agencies, responded to a local business in reference to a commercial structure fire. Branson Fire Rescue did an amazing job swiftly knocking down the fire, helping to preserve the structure and evidence for our arson investigation.

With the excellent teamwork of Patrol and Investigations Unit, we were able to identify the suspect, locate him, and make an arrest in less than 12 hours after the fire. 

Frank Paul was arrested and transported to Taney County Jail. Charges for 2 counts of Burglary 2nd Degree, 1 count of Arson 2nd Degree and Felony Stealing are being sent to Taney County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. The stolen property was recovered and returned to the business.

Branson Police: No girl was found on side of the road in a coma

(From the Branson Police Department)

Branson Police Department is aware of a photo circulating on social media with a fake post about a girl that was found on the side of the road in a coma that we are trying to identify. 

This is another example of one of the fake posts that circulate trying to cause hysteria and panic, and could lead to further spam issues. BPD has no current cases or reports matching this incident.

As a reminder, our official channels DO post crime and safety updates, so we always recommend checking our page to see if a post you have seen has been reported on our page. If not, it could be a fake post.

Check out this graphic for how to spot a fake post and what red flags to look for!

Springfield man indicted for sexual exploitation of two child victims

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for the sexual exploitation of two child victims.

Yevgeniy Dudko, 51, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Dudko on March 16, 2023, and includes additional charges.

The indictment charges Dudko with two counts of using minors, identified in court documents as Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2, to produce child pornography from Nov. 20, 2021, to March 14, 2023. Dudko is also charged with one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, investigators found approximately 1,000 images of Jane Doe 1 and potentially other minor victims on Dudko’s cell phone. Some of these images appeared to have been created by a hidden camera.

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 Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.

Four Springfield men sentenced for meth conspiracy

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

Four Springfield, Mo., men were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Keith A. Ball, 38, Elshabazz M. Jackson, 32, Bryce S. Amador, 28, and Richard D. Sweaney, 38, were sentenced in separate hearings before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips. Ball was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison without parole. Jackson and Amador were each sentenced to 11 years and three months in federal prison without parole. Sweaney was sentenced eight years in federal prison without parole.

According to court documents, conspirators transported a large amount of methamphetamine into Springfield for further distribution. Ball and Jackson were stopped by law enforcement officers in Lawrence County on Sept. 7, 2018, while in possession of nearly five kilograms of methamphetamine. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Ball’s residence the same day and found a Heritage .22-calibe revolver, a Colt .38-caliber revolver, and a Star Bonifacio Echeverria 9mm semi-automatic pistol.

Ball, Sweaney and Amador each pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene and Lawrence counties from June 6, 2018, to Sept. 7, 2018. Ball, who was a leader of the conspiracy, also pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

Amador also pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Amador was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by law enforcement in Springfield on Sept. 7, 2018. The officer arrested the driver of the vehicle and saw a Davis Industries .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol on the floorboard near Amador’s foot. Amador also was in possession of a Jimenez Arms .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol during the execution of a search warrant at Ball’s residence on the same day.

Jackson pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

The fifth and final co-defendant, Amanda Henderson, 40, of Springfield, was sentenced on June 4, 2021, to five years of probation.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica R. Eatmon and Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Armed robbery reported at Aurora convenience store

(From the Aurora-Marionville Police Department)

On 04-10-2023 at approximately 11:20pm, a male subject entered the Eagle Stop store on Pin Oak drive. The subject displayed a weapon described as a black handgun and demanded the clerk give him money. He was given a small amount of cash from the register and ran from the store.

The subject was wearing an orange beanie and a partial face mask which we have recovered. He was driving a light colored SUV and left the area. We will share video footage/screen shots in the near future.

 
If you have information about this case, please contact AMPD and request to speak with any on-duty officer.

This is an ongoing investigation and staff are actively pursuing leads in this case.

Monett Police Department Monthly Report

 

Inmate indicted for assaulting warden at Medical Center in Springfield

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

An inmate at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury today for assaulting the warden.

Omar Romero-Morales, 36, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.

According to the indictment, Romero-Morales punched the medical center’s warden in the face.

The charge contained in this indictment 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 Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners, and the Bureau of Prisons.

Queen City Motors owner sentenced for $783,000 fraud scheme

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

A Nixa, Mo., man who used his business to steal customers’ identity information in a scheme to obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent car loans was sentenced in federal court today.

Chris R. King, 48, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to four years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered King to pay $646,597 in restitution to his victims and to forfeit the same amount to the government.

On Nov. 20, 2021, King pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft.

King, formerly the co-owner of Queen City Motors, a used car business in Springfield, Mo., admitted that he stole the identity information of individuals who were interested in obtaining loans to purchase vehicles from him. King used that information, without the knowledge or authorization of the potential customers, to fraudulently submit loan applications and receive funds wired to his bank account from Credit Acceptance, a company that dealt specifically in the approval of subprime loans for individuals with poor credit ratings.

King fraudulently submitted at least 30 automobile loan applications and received cash deposits of approximately $783,475 between Nov. 1, 2018, and Nov. 8, 2020.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

Springfield man sentenced to 35 years for child sexual abuse, child pornography

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

A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for sexually assaulting a child victim and recording the abuse on his cell phone.

William Shane Berg, 50, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 35 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Berg to spend the rest of his life on supervised release following incarceration.

On June 2, 2022, Berg pleaded guilty to one count of the sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of receiving child pornography over the internet. Berg admitted that he sexually abused a minor victim, identified in court documents as John Doe 2.

Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Berg’s residence on April 12, 2020, and seized a laptop computer, VHS tapes, CDs, two laptop hard drives, a portable hard drive, a CD writer, USB drives, a camera and media card, three Chromebooks, and a cell phone. Investigators found multiple files on the cell phone and the laptop computer that depicted Berg sexually abusing John Doe 2. They also found additional files of child pornography that Berg downloaded from the internet.

When the victim was interviewed at the Springfield Child Advocacy Center, he told investigators that Berg started sexually abusing him when he was in the fifth grade. He said Berg took videos on his cell phone during the sexual abuse.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the FBI and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

West Plains man indicted for stealing timber from Mark Twain National Forest

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

A West Plains, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for stealing timber from Mark Twain National Forest.

Justin Lee Massey, 39, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.

Today’s indictment alleges that Massey stole timber from federal property in Howell County, Mo., between Dec. 15, 2020, and Jan. 20, 2021. The indictment also includes a forfeiture allegation, which would require Massey to forfeit to the government any property obtained from the alleged violation, including a money judgment of $30,000.

The charge contained in this indictment 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 Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the U.S. Forestry Service.

Disturbance call to Springfield Police results in DWI arrest

 

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Officers responded to a disturbance in the 800 block of E Battlefield in the early morning hours on Friday.

 
As officers arrived, Ilya Karachi, 28, left in his vehicle. Karachi fled from officers as they attempted to stop him for traffic violations and speeding. The vehicle was later spotted with Karachi driving erratically.

 
When the vehicle came to a stop, Karachi was taken into custody and booked into the Greene County Jail for driving while intoxicated, resisting arrest and was cited for a number of traffic violations.

Springfield fugitive arrested after pursuit, meth confiscated

(From Aurora and Marionville Police Department)

Last night, AMPD attempted a traffic stop on hwy 60 for several traffic violations. The black Mercedes passenger car failed to yield and engaged our officers in a pursuit. The pursuit continued into Republic and eventually ended on James River Freeway.

The driver was subsequently identified as Steven Hopkins of Springfield. He was found in possession of suspected methamphetamine and was a wanted fugitive out of state. He is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

We want to thank our neighboring agencies for assisting us in bringing Hopkins into custody and getting him and his poison off the street. He was transported back to Lawrence County and turned over to the Lawrence County Jail in lieu of felony charges being filed.