April 30, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

Mock DUI Crash set for Camdenton High School

Members of the community and the media are invited to attend an Alcohol Awareness Docudrama at the Camdenton High School located on the Camdenton School main campus on Friday May 2^nd 2008. The program will begin at 12:30 PM and will be held in the parking lot.

The presentation will include a mock alcohol related car crash involving teenagers from the Camdenton High School. Several students from the school have been selected to play the roles of the dead and injured victims. Realistic looking injuries are created using make-up and fake blood. Local Police, Ambulance, Fire/Rescue and Lifeline helicopter agencies will be summoned to the crash scene as the scene is played out and will perform their duties as they would in a real life situation. The Junior and Senior High School students will view the crash scene.

Following the mock crash and emergency response, a speaker from St John’s Hospital will talk to the students about alcohol use, driving behaviors and the consequences of drinking and driving.

The purpose of the event is to raise the student’s awareness about the decisions they make regarding alcohol and getting behind the wheel of a car.

Program partners are: Camdenton Police Department, Camdenton R-III Schools, Missouri Highway Patrol, Camdenton Fire Department, Camden County Sheriff’s Department, St. Johns Ambulance and St Johns Hospital, Allee Holman Howe Funeral Home, and Bledsoe Conoco.

April 28, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Thursday, April 24^th at approx. 10:50 PM Officers responded to the parking lot of a local business in reference to a motor vehicle crash.  Upon arrival Officers observed an unoccupied white 2003 Chevrolet SUV with extensive front end damage.  Directly in front of the SUV was an Air Compressor on its side that had been damaged and several other pieces of equipment scattered about that looked as if they had been struck by the vehicle. 

Officers located the female driver, identified as 38 year old Sheri L. Marschke of Camdenton, in a nearby parking lot.  She advised that she had been driving on Hwy. 5 and a male acquaintance in the passenger seat had struck her in the eye.  Marschke became upset and pulled into the parking lot to let the male out of the vehicle. When she applied her brakes the vehicle slid into the equipment and it was at this point the male acquaintance left.  

The business owner responded to the scene and shown what had occurred.  He stated he would contact the police department with estimates for the damaged/destroyed equipment.

While speaking with Marschke Officers detected a moderate amount of intoxicants on her breath.  After failing a field sobriety test Marschke was arrested and transported to the Camden County Sheriff’s Department where a breathalyzer test revealed a breath alcohol content of 0.096%.  Marschke was charged with DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED and given a municipal court date of June 5, 2008 and was released after posting bond.

April 18, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On April 18^th at approx. 11:34 AM Officers were dispatched to S. Hwy. 5 near Illinois Street regarding a downed wire.

Upon arrival, Officers observed a wire lying across Hwy. 5 and a pole on both the East and West sides of the road were broken and had fallen to the ground.  As the wire came down it caused damaged to two parked vehicles, a 2005 Ford passenger car belonging to Michael Haynes of Camdenton and a 1995 Volvo belonging to Brian Garrison of Camdenton.

A witness said he believed the damage had been caused by a semi pulling an over-sized load that had just gone through travelling southbound toward Lebanon.  Laclede County Sheriff’s Dept. was able to locate the vehicle as it neared Lebanon and the driver returned to the scene.

The driver, employed by Lone Star Transportation out of Ft. Wood, TX driving a 2005 Freightliner Semi pulling an over-size load admitted he hit the wire but does not believe he pulled it down.  Investigation to continue.

Officers handled traffic direction for several hours and the line had not been repaired as of 4:30 PM.

March 27, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Wednesday, March 25^th at approx. 8:40 PM Camdenton Police Officers met with a 14 year old female and her mother regarding an assault that had occurred to the juvenile earlier in the day.  According to the juvenile, she had woke early in the morning  to find a male subject physically assaulting her.  The man fled when the victim started screaming loudly.  As the man fled, the victim identified him as an 18 year old Lebanon man that had been staying at the house for the past few weeks. The suspect left his personal belongings, including his wallet at the house when he fled.

An investigation into the assault revealed that the victim had injuries consistent with the assault.  Upon meeting with the suspect, identified as an 18 year old male from Lebanon, Police observed that he also had injuries consistent with the victim’s statement.  The male suspect was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold pending charges from the Camden County Prosecutor for FELONIOUS RESTRAINT.

March 21, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On March 20^th at approx. 8:10 AM Officers responded to Head Hunters Salon located on Ha Ha Tonka Cut Thru Road in reference to a burglary.  Officers met with the owner who explained that shortly before calling Police he had arrived at the business and found that an outside door had been pried open.  When he entered the building he observed that an intruder had opened the desk drawers and removed cash.  Various other items were also found missing.  The burglary evidently occurred sometime after the previous day when the owner left at approx. 8:45 PM.

Officers dusted the business for latent prints and photographed the scene.  Police ask anyone that may have seen suspicious activity in these areas to contact the Camdenton Police Department at 573-346-3604.

March 21, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Thursday, March 20th, at approximately 5:40 PM Officers with the Camdenton Police Department responded to an apartment to conduct a follow-up investigation involving an assault that had occurred on March 15th.  Officers were attempting to contact the suspect of the vehicular assault, based on statements it appeared that he had intentionally driven his van into a Blazer after a verbal altercation with the driver of the Blazer.  The driver of the Blazer and his passenger were still inside the vehicle when it was struck.  The impact caused extensive damage to the Blazer but the occupants were not hurt.

When the officers arrived, they made contact with the 33 year old suspect, identified as Russell R. Meddows, at his apartment and were let in.  When Officers entered the apartment, they could smell a very strong odor of burnt marijuana.  After Officers questioning the Meddows about the assault, he was placed under arrest.  Police also met with a 34 year old female, identified as Kelly S. Erickson and her four children, ages ranging from 4 months to 14 years old, living with the Meddows. 

A search warrant was obtained and executed at the apartment where Officers located approximately 83.5 grams of marijuana, pills, and numerous items of drug paraphernalia.  Many of the above items were located within close proximity of where the children sleep and play.  Erickson was also found to have an active warrant for her arrest out of Camden County for Bad Checks.

The female was placed under arrest and taken to the Camden County Jail for the warrant.  The Department of Family Services – Children’s Division was contacted and responded to the scene.  The children were placed in Emergency Foster Care.  Erickson was placed on a 24-hour hold and was charged with Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance.  Bond was set at $6,000.00 cash or surety.  The bond for the Passing a Bad Check was set for $500.00 cash.

March 14, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On March 13^th at approx. 6:55 PM Officers responded to a restaurant parking lot in reference to a complaint of two subjects smoking what appeared to be Marijuana in a black Honda.  Officers made contact with the occupants of the vehicle, identifying the passenger, 22 year old Brandi K. Bettis and driver, 27 year old Timothy D. Austin, both of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. 

A computer check revealed that Austin’s driver’s license had been revoked and that both subject’s were on probation and/or parole for drug related violations.  Officer’s placed Austin under arrest for Driving while Revoked.  A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of drug paraphernalia, several small baggies of white crystal substance, assorted pills and a cash in the amount of $2,108.00

Both subjects were arrested and transported to the Camden County Sheriff’s Department and placed on a 24-hour hold.  On March 14^th both subjects were charged with 2 counts of Possession of Controlled Substance with surety bond of $75,000. set for Austin and $50,000.00 for Bettis.

February 27, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Tuesday, February 26^th at approx. 12:30 noon an Officer with the Camdenton Police Department responded to a retail store in reference to a counterfeit bill that had been taken by a cashier during a transaction.  The five dollar bill that was confiscated had been bleached and printed to resemble a one-hundred dollar bill.  The counterfeit bill had not been detected during the initial transaction since the marking pen most retailers use to check for counterfeit currency did not react to the paper since it originally was a true bill.

On Wednesday, February 27^th Officers confiscated two additional counterfeit bills from the same retail store and two bills from a local banking facility.  Officers are investigating this crime and have contacted personnel with the Secret Service to advise them of the incidents.  Area banks have also been notified so that they can be on the look-out counterfeit bills that may have come through their facilities.

Counterfeiting is a federal crime that victimizes many individuals and businesses each year.   High-tech criminals continue to change the way they counterfeit, making detection a challenge to law enforcement.

February 21, 2008

            POLICE OFFICER I POSITIONS – CAMDENTON POLICE

            40 Hours per week, excellent benefits including retirement.  Must be at least 21, basic law             enforcement course, POST certified, physical exam, drug screen and background check required.  Applications available at Camdenton Police, 437 West U.S. Hwy. 54, Camdenton, between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Applications accepted until position filled.  EOE

February 13, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On February 12^th at approx. 12:04 PM Camdenton Police Officers responded to E. Hwy. 54 regarding a motor vehicle crash. The crash apparently occurred when a 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier heading West on Hwy. 54, driven by a 50 year old Camdenton woman, slowed to make a right turn into a business. A Ford F-150 truck driven by a 40 year old Vernon, Missouri man following behind the Cavalier, struck the vehicle as it turned into the business, causing the Cavalier to travel approx. 58 feet where it slid off a retaining wall, hit an awning from the business, traveled another 113 feet down an embankment, finally stopping upon striking a bundle of PVC Pipe and a concrete barrier.

The Camdenton woman was transported to Lake Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  Both drivers involved in the crash were reported to be wearing seatbelts at the time of the incident.  The Vernon, Missouri man was cited for FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY and given a court date of March 6, 2008.

Press Release – February 4, 2008

Special Olympics Shirts Have Arrived!

Officers with the Camdenton Police Department are selling Law Enforcement Torch Run T-Shirts that support the MO Special Olympics.

This is the 12^th year that the Camdenton Police Department has participated in the Torch Run Club. “Each year our department sets a goal to raise at least $1,000.00. Any law enforcement agency that raises over $1,000.00 a year gets their name put on the back of the Torch Run T-Shirts the following year,” stated Police Chief Laura Wright.

This years T-Shirts are “Texas” orange (burnt orange) in color and are available in long sleeve or short sleeve. Short Sleeve shirts are $10 in sizes Small – 2XL and $15 in size 3XL. Long Sleeve shirts are $15 in sizes Small – 2XL.

The Camdenton Police Department also participates in the Polar Bear Plunge, set for February 23^rd in Osage Beach.  All donations and sales from these events go directly to the MO Special Olympics to offset expenses for the athletes who participate in the Special Olympics. If you are interested in purchasing a T-Shirt or donating to this great cause please contact Jerry or Melissa at 573-346-3604.

January 18, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Sunday, January 13^th, a Camdenton Officer was dispatched to a local business in reference to a theft.  The victim, a Camdenton woman, had left her purse in her vehicle and when she returned to the vehicle, found that it was missing.  At the same time she realized her purse had been taken, she observed two male subjects running away from the area.  She gave Police a description of the subject’s and a list of items in her purse, which included a debit card.

Police initiated an investigation into the theft, finding that the debit card had been used at several local retail stores.  An observant clerk at one of the stores seized the card and called the Police.  Footage from surveillance cameras assisted Officers with making a identification of the male subject.  Officer’s met with Adam B. Shrieves, a 20 year old man who admitted that he removed the purse from the vehicle and using the debit card. Shrieves was arrested and charged with two counts of Class C felony of Forgery.  Bond was set a $10,000.00 cash or surety.

Citizen’s are reminded to never leave valuables in their vehicles or unattended.  Don’t give criminals the opportunity to take your personal possessions and possibly your identity.  Citizens are encouraged to be pro-active, evaluating their actions to minimize the risk of being victimized.  We must always be diligent to assure the safety of ourselves, our families and our possessions.

January 18, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

The City of Camdenton is pleased to announce that the Camdenton Skate Park’s Phase I construction is complete.  To celebrate the long-awaited park, the community including skaters of all ages are encouraged to join a grand-opening set for Monday, January 21^st between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM *.  Refreshments, skating competitions and prizes will be part of an exciting day. 

Members of the Skate Park Committee have been meeting since August 2006 in order to erect a skate park that can be used by the youth in our community.  In April of 2007 the city council approved funding for the park equipment in the amount of $30,000.00 in the 07/08 Budget.  Chief Wright stated “I am proud of the many local businesses who stepped forward, donating materials and labor for the project, making it possible to use the majority of the city funds for the skate park obstacles and ramps”.  The city is thankful for the generosity of the following:  APAC Missouri, Inc., Clark’s Concrete, High Brothers Lumber, Mid State Concrete Placement, Scott’s Concrete and Ozark Ready Mix.  Also, the city is appreciative of the community members, who worked together on this project for over a year and a half so that our youth will be able to enjoy their sport here in Camdenton.

The Skatepark Committee will meet again in the near future to discuss details and plans for growth of the skatepark.  Chief Wright said, “It is very important people using this facility take care of the equipment to maintain support for future expansion”.

The winner of the art contest is Camdenton resident Derrick Jeffries who drew the logo that will be posted on the skate park sign.  Derrick will receive a $100. savings bond.

Come and help us celebrate our new skate park.  See you there!

January 14, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

On Saturday, January 12^th at approx. 11:23 PM the Camdenton Police Department was called to a residence on Ballpark Road in reference to a disturbance. 

Upon arrival, Officers discovered several people at the house and a group of them fled the scene. Missouri State Hwy. Patrol and Camden County Sheriff’s Department arrived and assisted Officers; four of the subjects who attempted to leave were detained.

Investigation revealed drug paraphernalia in their possession. Officers believe several of the people who were under the age of 21 had been drinking. A total of 8 subjects were charged with the following: Five for MINOR IN POSSESSION, four for DISORDERLY CONDUCT, one for SUPPLY LIQUOR TO MINOR and one warrant for FAILURE TO APPEAR. 

November 29, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

On Thursday, November 29, 2007 at approximately 00:46 hrs officers from the Camdenton Police Department and Linn Creek Police Department were dispatched to the Wal-Mart Super Center for a report of a female being attacked in the parking lot.

Upon arrival officers were told that the suspect had fled into the woods.  The victim, a 23 year old from Camdenton, told officers that she had been shopping, and was going to her vehicle.  As she was loading her vehicle, she observed a male subject wearing a black jacket walking in the parking lot.  As she put her cart away and was walking back to her vehicle, the suspect came up behind her and put his hand over her mouth as he pushed her in between her car and another vehicle.  She started to scream and the suspect told her to “shut up”.  She continued to scream and began to “swing” at the suspect.  The victim was able to continue to fight until the male suspect let go of her and began to run away.  The victim chased after the suspect and continued yelling for help.  A Wal-Mart employee and two citizens heard the call for help and chased the suspect into the woods behind the building.

Officers from the Camdenton Police Department, Linn Creek Police Department, and Camden County Sheriffs Department spent approximately 1 hour in the woods looking for the suspect.  He was located near a dirt road behind the business and taken into custody.  Officers observed that the suspect was highly intoxicated and had sustained small injuries to his hands and wrists while in the woods.  He was taken to Lake Regional Hospital for treatment.  After he was released from the hospital, he was taken to the Camden County Jail and placed on a 24 hour hold, pending formal charges.  The investigation found that the suspect was abandoned in the lake area and was waiting for a ride back to his home. 

November 26, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

On Friday, November 23^rd at approx. 8:15 AM Camdenton Police Department responded to the Camden County Health Department located on N. Hwy 5 in reference to a motor vehicle that had been driven into the building.

Upon arrival Officers observed a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu partially inside the building.  The accident apparently occurred when the driver, 58 year old Michael J. White of Camdenton, was attempting to park his vehicle in the front of the building. White stated his foot shifted to the accelerator causing the vehicle to drive forward into the wall.  The vehicle crashed into a children’s play area inside the building causing major damage.  The Health Department was closed due to the holidays therefore no one was in the facility at the time of the accident.

The driver was transported to Lake Regional Hospital for treatment of injuries. 

November 16, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

Notice for Skateboarders:

Finally, a place for you and your friends to gather and enjoy your sport.  The City of Camdenton, along with several local businesses, began the initial phase of a skateboard park that is located between the basketball court and aquatic center on City Park Road.

A 60 x 120 concrete pad was poured in October.  Equipment that includes ramps and obstacles were recently ordered and are expected to be installed by mid-December.

Now….it’s up to you.  Several representatives of the City of Camdenton have said they would like to see the youth involved with this project, hoping the skateboarders will take ownership of the upkeep of the park and equipment, thereby decreasing the chance of vandalism.

We would like to have as many youth as possible that are interested in the skateboard park attend a meeting on November 20^th at 3:30 PM.  The meeting will be held at Camdenton City Hall to discuss future plans for the park,  decide tasks for the upcoming work days and work on the grand-opening ceremony.

A workday for the youth in the community has been tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 26^th and Tuesday, November 27^th from 3:30 PM thru 5:30 PM to assist in clearing rocks from the area and spreading sod.  If you are interested in seeing the skateboard park construction proceed and showing the community you care for this project, please wear some work clothes and meet us at the park on the scheduled days to help.

November 15, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

On November 9^th at approx. 12:30 PM Camdenton School Resource Officer responded to the Middle School to investigate an alleged incident of a student distributing prescription medication to classmates.  The Officer met with school officials who had just learned that late the previous day on November 8^th, two 13 year old females had been checked by the school nurse after acting suspiciously.

 When questioned on the 9th, one of those girls admitted to a school official she had in fact brought prescription medication from home and gave them to several other students.

During the investigation, School Officials and Officers learned that a 13 year old female subject had taken approx. 30 pills of prescription medication from her parents and passed them out to six other children at the school.  Officers were unable to recover any of the medications, therefore a positive identification of what medications that were distributed is unknown at this time.  A few of the students consumed one or two of the pills and the majority threw them away.   Officials with the school spoke with the parents of each of these students, alerting them of the incident.

A juvenile referral was completed on the 13 year old female for DISTRIBUTION OF PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION.  She was released to the custody of her parents.  All students involved in this incident will receive discipline from the school in accordance with their policies.

In light of the seriousness of this incident, and other law enforcement agencies noting an increase in teens using prescription medications, Chief Wright ask parents to sit down and talk with children about illegal drug use and the life-long consequences that could follow.  Illness and even death are possible for even the first time experimenters, not to mention the criminal charges that can stem from using or distributing drugs.

November 13, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

On Tuesday, November 13^th at approx. 1:58 PM Officers with the Camdenton Police Department responded to motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian on S. Hwy. 5.  Upon arrival, Police met with a 66 year old Roach woman who had been injured.  The accident evidently occurred when she parked her 95’ Lincoln Town Car at the business and walked to the front of the vehicle.  The Lincoln rolled forward striking the woman.  She was transported from the scene of the accident by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital with a possible broken leg.  Investigation to continue.